Charles Leclerc tops United States Grand Prix practice in Austin

Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc recorded the fastest time in both practice sessions at the United States Grand Prix on Friday, according to BBC News. Leclerc edged Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli by 0.042 seconds at the track in Austin, while Red Bull driver Max Verstappen placed third overall. [1][2][3][4][6]

BBC News reported that Verstappen finished 0.189 seconds behind Leclerc, while seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton finished fourth for Ferrari, 0.615 seconds off the lead pace. Mercedes driver George Russell ended the day in fifth place, followed by Racing Bulls driver Liam Lawson in sixth. [1]

The practice result comes after Russell previously set the fastest lap ahead of Leclerc at the Singapore Grand Prix practice session, as FTMQ News reported earlier. Antonelli, an Italian driver who competes for Mercedes, has won eight Formula One Grands Prix since making his debut in 2025. [8][9]

BBC News noted that Antonelli holds a mathematical chance to secure his first world title during this race weekend. However, he can only win the championship in Austin if he wins the race, while Russell finishes lower than eighth and Hamilton finishes fifth or lower. [1]