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Verstappen Leads the Way in First Practice at Spa
Following a difficult run of form, Max Verstappen got back on track at Spa by topping the opening practice session for the Belgian Grand Prix.
By Michael de Vries - 2026-07-17T12:38:44.000Z - 2 min read
Max Verstappen made a strong return to form at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit, setting the fastest time in the opening session of the Belgian Grand Prix. It marked a notable milestone, as it was the first time this season that the Red Bull driver finished a practice session in P1. Heading into the weekend, his team had discarded the controversial 'Macarena' rear wing following recent crashes in Austria and Silverstone.
Setting a time of 1m47.070s, Verstappen was over a tenth clear of his nearest rival in FP1. Lewis Hamilton slotted into second in his Ferrari, 0.145s behind the Dutchman. Charles Leclerc, winner of the British Grand Prix, rounded out the top three, 0.207s off the session pace setter.
Teammate Isack Hadjar also displayed solid pace by setting the fourth-quickest time, though he will start the race from the back of the grid following multiple power unit element changes. Lando Norris also faces a ten-place grid penalty due to a new battery installation. Over at McLaren, Oscar Piastri suffered an unfortunate end to the session when he coasted to a halt on the Kemmel Straight and had to return slowly to the garage.
Championship leader Kimi Antonelli placed his Mercedes in sixth position, just behind Piastri and ahead of Norris. George Russell completed the top eight. Behind them, Racing Bulls driver Arvid Lindblad and Audi driver Gabriel Bortoleto showed well as the quickest midfield runners, while Jak Crawford, driving Fernando Alonso's Aston Martin, remained within four tenths of teammate Lance Stroll.