Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium – Mercedes delivered a surprise performance during the second free practice session (FP2) of the 2026 Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix, with rookie sensation Kimi Antonelli topping the timesheets at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps circuit.

The young Italian driver set the fastest lap of the session with a time of 1:45.944, edging out Lando Norris (McLaren) by just 0.190 seconds. Reigning world champion Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing) completed the top three, only 0.472 seconds behind Antonelli.

The FP2 results highlight how competitive the battle at the front has become, with Mercedes, McLaren, and Red Bull Racing all showing strong pace ahead of qualifying.

Antonelli Shows Mercedes’ True Potential at Spa

Kimi Antonelli was the biggest story of FP2. The Mercedes rookie looked highly confident around Spa-Francorchamps, a circuit that demands the perfect balance between high-speed performance, aerodynamic efficiency, and car stability.

Mercedes appeared particularly strong through the fast sections of the track, including the Kemmel Straight and the final sector, where low drag and strong traction are essential.

Antonelli’s performance is a major boost for Mercedes, who have been searching for the right direction with their 2026 car package. Defeating several experienced drivers in such a competitive session sends a strong message heading into the rest of the weekend.

Norris Keeps McLaren in the Fight

Lando Norris continued his impressive form with McLaren, finishing just two tenths behind Antonelli.

The British driver’s pace confirms that McLaren remains one of the strongest contenders for pole position. However, teammate Oscar Piastri experienced a quieter session, finishing sixth with a gap of 0.982 seconds from the leader, although he completed fewer laps compared to many of his rivals.

McLaren still appears to be fine-tuning the balance of the car, especially under braking and through Spa’s demanding high-speed corners.

Verstappen Remains a Serious Threat

Although Max Verstappen finished third, Red Bull Racing’s performance should not be underestimated. The Dutch driver was less than half a second away from the fastest time, proving that the team remains firmly in contention.

Red Bull often focuses heavily on long-run performance during practice sessions, and Verstappen’s race pace could become a crucial factor during Sunday’s Grand Prix.

Meanwhile, teammate Isack Hadjar delivered an impressive performance, finishing fifth with a gap of 0.770 seconds. His strong pace adds another positive sign for Red Bull ahead of qualifying.

Ferrari Still Searching for the Perfect Setup

Ferrari did not enjoy the strongest FP2 session. Lewis Hamilton was the team’s fastest driver in fourth place, trailing Antonelli by 0.747 seconds, while Charles Leclerc could only manage 11th position with a gap of 1.524 seconds.

Spa-Francorchamps requires the perfect compromise between straight-line speed and cornering grip, and Ferrari appears to still be working to find the ideal setup for its 2026 package.

Alpine and Williams Show Positive Signs

One of the surprises of FP2 came from Franco Colapinto, who placed seventh for Alpine. The Argentine driver showed impressive pace and managed to outperform several midfield rivals.

Williams also showed promising signs with Alexander Albon and Carlos Sainz. Although both drivers finished outside the top 10, Spa’s high-speed characteristics could still suit the Williams car as the weekend progresses.

FP2 Analysis – Belgian Grand Prix 2026

1. Mercedes May Have Found the Right Formula

Antonelli’s result suggests Mercedes could have made a significant step forward. The car looked stable, efficient, and well-balanced around one of Formula 1’s most demanding circuits.

2. Pole Position Battle Looks Wide Open

With less than half a second separating the top three drivers, qualifying is expected to be extremely competitive. A small mistake in any sector could determine the starting order.

3. Red Bull Remains Dangerous

Even without topping the session, Verstappen and Red Bull remain serious contenders. Their focus on race simulations during practice could prove valuable during the Grand Prix.

4. Spa Weather Could Change Everything

Spa-Francorchamps is famous for unpredictable weather conditions. Tire strategy, setup decisions, and the ability to adapt quickly could become decisive factors throughout the weekend.

Top 10 FP2 – Belgian Grand Prix 2026

1. 🇮🇹 Kimi Antonelli – Mercedes — 1:45.944
2. 🇬🇧 Lando Norris – McLaren — +0.190
3. 🇳🇱 Max Verstappen – Red Bull Racing — +0.472
4. 🇬🇧 Lewis Hamilton – Ferrari — +0.747
5. 🇫🇷 Isack Hadjar – Red Bull Racing — +0.770
6. 🇦🇺 Oscar Piastri – McLaren — +0.982
7. 🇦🇷 Franco Colapinto – Alpine — +1.203
8. 🇬🇧 George Russell – Mercedes — +1.285
9. 🇸🇪 Arvid Lindblad – Red Bull Racing — +1.350
10. 🇳🇿 Liam Lawson – Red Bull Racing — +1.490

Conclusion

FP2 at the 2026 Belgian Grand Prix delivered an exciting preview ahead of qualifying. Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli stole the spotlight with a stunning lap, but with Norris and Verstappen only fractions of a second behind, the battle for pole position at Spa-Francorchamps remains completely open.

With three major teams showing competitive pace, qualifying promises to be one of the most closely fought sessions of the season.