Leclerc Takes Provisional Pole as Russell and Norris Press Close in Mexico City

UPDATE - follow-up to Mexican Grand Prix qualifying: Formula One 2026 – live: Charles Leclerc posted a 1:16.647 lap to claim provisional pole in Mexico City. George Russell was 0.009 seconds slower, moving into second place. Lando Norris recorded a time that placed him among the top three, edging Hamilton by 0.177 seconds. Max Verstappen finished the session second with a 0.045‑second gap to the leader. Antonio Antonelli recorded the fifth‑fastest lap. Yuki Hadjar misjudged his pit entry line, prompting criticism from commentator Bernie Collins. Hamilton went off the track at turn 13 after a middle‑sector mistake, losing time. Bernie Collins noted the drivers’ radio messages were filled with uncertainty about strategy. The top ten after the final sector were Norris, Verstappen, Leclerc, Hamilton, Russell, Hadjar, Antonelli, Lin, Lawson and Gasly. Several drivers including Nico Hulkenberg, Colapinto, Oscar Piastri, Bortoleto, Bearman and Carlos Sainz failed to improve their times and were eliminated. Ollie Bearman was the fastest Haas driver, finishing tenth. The session highlighted the low‑downforce nature of the circuit, which drivers described as challenging for tyre windows.

Context

The Mexican Grand Prix qualifying forms the final grid‑setting round before the race weekend. The high altitude of Mexico City reduces aerodynamic grip, making low downforce settings critical. Drivers often struggle to find optimal tyre windows under these conditions.