George Russell took control of the second practice session for the Italian Grand Prix, setting the fastest time at Monza ahead of Charles Leclerc and Kimi Antonelli.

After Ferrari dominated the opening practice session with a one two led by Leclerc, Russell responded strongly for Mercedes in FP2. The British driver set a best time of 1:22.559, finishing 0.120 seconds ahead of Leclerc, while Antonelli was just 0.021 seconds further back in third.

The result put Mercedes back at the front after an encouraging opening day at the Temple of Speed. Russell looked competitive throughout the session and showed strong pace when the teams switched their focus towards qualifying simulations.

Leclerc continued Ferrari’s impressive form at their home race, finishing second after topping FP1 earlier in the day. The Ferrari driver once again gave the Tifosi plenty to be excited about as the Scuderia remained firmly in the fight at the front.

Championship leader Antonelli completed the top three in the second Mercedes. The Italian is racing at home this weekend, but his challenge will be made more difficult by his engine penalty, which will see him start the Grand Prix from the back of the grid.

Lando Norris finished fourth for McLaren, continuing his strong recent form after winning the last two Grands Prix. Lewis Hamilton completed the top five, giving Ferrari another competitive result following their impressive FP1 one two.

After Ferrari set the pace in the first session and Mercedes responded in FP2, the battle for the Italian Grand Prix is already looking extremely close. With Russell, Leclerc and Antonelli separated by only a small margin, qualifying at Monza could be one of the most competitive sessions of the season.

Friday ended with Mercedes on top, but Ferrari remain right in the fight in front of their passionate home crowd.