Leclerc tops first US GP practice in Austin, 0.084s ahead of Verstappen

Charles Leclerc set the fastest time in first practice at the United States Grand Prix in Austin on 23 October 2026, edging Red Bull's Max Verstappen by 0.084 seconds. The run was the opening session of the weekend's track action.

Leclerc won the US Grand Prix in Austin two years ago. Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli was fifth fastest, 0.481secs off the pace, positioned behind McLaren's Lando Norris and Mercedes' George Russell. Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton recorded the sixth quickest time, ahead of McLaren's Oscar Piastri.

Mercedes have reverted both their cars to the upgraded specification that was introduced in Malaysia two races ago, a package about which questions remain over its relative performance. The team say they believe the upgrade contains more performance but that they have not yet found the appropriate set-up to maximise it. Mercedes hope a full, 'normal' weekend with three practice sessions will enable them to hone that specification.

Ferrari have brought an upgrade to Austin described as fundamentally a new floor, but both Leclerc and Hamilton have downplayed its likely effect. Hamilton said: "We have a very, very small upgrade this weekend. It's less than a tenth. It's like half a tenth. "So, I don't think that propels us forward enough to necessarily challenge that deficit. But maybe the track suits our car, and maybe they'll have a one-off weekend. Maybe Mercedes will have an off weekend again, and we'll be right there to take it."

BBC Sport's coverage includes live commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live and 5 Sports Extra, with live text updates on the BBC Sport website and app. Related pieces linked from the report include "Austin track bumps out of control - Verstappen", "Antonelli to 'just have fun' as he aims for title", "Best images of F1 in the US through the years", "Andrew Benson Q&A: Send us your questions" and "US GP Preview: Will Austin Crown a Champion?"

Antonelli will win the championship in Austin only if he wins the race and Russell finishes below eighth and Hamilton below fourth.