Lando Norris Tops Hungarian GP Practice as McLaren Dominate Friday Sessions

McLaren Seal Impressive One-Two

Lando Norris led a commanding McLaren one-two in Friday practice at the Hungarian Grand Prix, finishing 0.291 seconds clear of his teammate Oscar Piastri. Despite both drivers experiencing setbacks in the second session—Norris making an error at Turn Two and Piastri getting caught in traffic—they still ended the day at the top of the timesheets.

Norris, who also led the opening session earlier in the day, posted the fastest time even after briefly losing control at the final corner when a wheel went on the grass. His lap time came under sub-optimal tyre conditions, showcasing the strength of the McLaren package at the Hungaroring.

Red Bull Struggles: Verstappen Voices Frustration

It was a frustrating day for Red Bull and Max Verstappen, who finished down in 14th place. The reigning world champion complained over team radio, labelling the car “undrivable” due to persistent balance issues. He is also under investigation by the FIA for allegedly throwing an object from his cockpit during the session.

Yuki Tsunoda, driving the second Red Bull, managed to place ninth—an indication of the team’s broader struggles on Friday.

Ferrari, Aston Martin Among Top Challengers

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc was third-fastest, continuing his solid form in the middle part of the season. Behind him were both Aston Martin drivers—Lance Stroll in fourth and Fernando Alonso in fifth. Alonso returned to the track after sitting out the first session with a back issue, showing resilience in his comeback drive.

Mercedes Show Mixed Signs

Lewis Hamilton placed sixth, though his car looked unsettled, particularly through the chicane. His Mercedes teammate George Russell finished seventh, putting in a steady if not spectacular showing.

Youngster Kimi Antonelli rounded out the top 10 in his Mercedes, while Isack Hadjar (Racing Bulls) impressed with an eighth-place finish.

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FAQs

Q1: Who was fastest in Friday practice at the Hungarian GP?
Lando Norris led the timesheets for McLaren, ahead of teammate Oscar Piastri.

Q2: Why did Max Verstappen finish 14th?
Verstappen struggled with balance issues and described the car as “undrivable” over team radio.

Q3: Is Verstappen under investigation?
Yes, he is being investigated for allegedly discarding an object from his cockpit.

Q4: How did Ferrari perform?
Charles Leclerc finished third, showing solid pace ahead of the weekend.

Q5: Which drivers completed the top 10?
Norris, Piastri, Leclerc, Stroll, Alonso, Hamilton, Russell, Hadjar, Tsunoda, and Antonelli.