Mercedes Surprise with 1-2 in Chinese GP Practice Ahead of Sprint Weekend
Mercedes stunned its rivals by locking out the top two spots in FP1 at the Shanghai International Circuit, with George Russell leading teammate Kimi Antonelli. The surprise result adds intrigue to the first Sprint event of the 2026 F1 season, which continues with Sprint Qualifying later on Friday.
Mercedes drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli topped the timesheets in the sole practice session for the 2026 Chinese Grand Prix, delivering an unexpected 1-2 finish ahead of McLaren and Ferrari. The session sets the stage for the season's first Sprint weekend, with Sprint Qualifying up next to set the grid for Saturday's short-form race.
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