Kimi Antonelli of Mercedes set the fastest lap to top the sole practice session for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix [1].
The result signals a potential shift in momentum for the weekend as Mercedes arrives in Montreal with a significant upgrade package. Because this was the only practice session scheduled before sprint qualifying and the race, the early performance suggests the team has found a critical technical advantage on the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve [2].
Antonelli recorded a fastest lap time of 1:13.456 [1]. The performance was not limited to a single driver; Mercedes occupied the top three positions in the FP1 standings [1]. This dominance across the front of the grid indicates the upgrade package is functioning effectively across different driver setups.
The session took place on Friday, June 5, 2026 [3]. Teams used the limited track time to fine-tune car balances, and aerodynamics ahead of the high-stakes sprint qualifying rounds [2].
While the focus remains on the technical performance of the cars, veteran drivers continue to address their future in the sport. Lewis Hamilton, speaking with BBC Sport on June 5, 2026, addressed rumors regarding his career longevity. "I have no plans to retire from Formula 1," Hamilton said.
The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is known for its demanding braking zones and high-speed sections, making the Mercedes sweep of the top three spots a notable achievement [1, 3]. The team now carries this momentum into the qualifying stages, where they will look to convert practice speed into pole position.
“Mercedes occupied the top three positions in FP1”
The dominance of Mercedes in the only available practice session reduces the margin for error for rival teams. With no further practice sessions to calibrate setups, competitors must rely on the data gathered during this single window to challenge the Mercedes upgrade package during the sprint and main race.
