Russell heads Mercedes one-two in first Madring practice
George Russell set the fastest time in the opening practice session for the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix as Formula 1 began its first competitive running at Madrid's new Madring circuit. Mercedes team-mate Kimi Antonelli was second, with Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton next and Max Verstappen fifth.
Russell led the way in the first official Formula 1 practice session at the new Madring circuit for the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix. The Mercedes driver posted a best lap of 1:34.077, finishing 0.286 seconds ahead of team-mate Kimi Antonelli.
Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton followed in third and fourth, while championship leader Max Verstappen was fifth for Red Bull. Lando Norris placed sixth, 0.870 seconds off the pace.
The session marked Formula 1's first competitive visit to the new Madrid venue. The 5.4-kilometre circuit features 22 turns.