McLaren Stuns Mercedes with Piastri's Top Time in Japan Practice

The reigning constructors' champions, McLaren, have made a significant impression in the second practice session for the Japanese Grand Prix, outpacing early 2026 championship leaders Mercedes. Oscar Piastri set the fastest time with a 1:30.133, finishing 0.092s ahead of Kimi Antonelli and 0.205s faster than George Russell, the current world championship leader. This outcome has come as a surprise, with McLaren having struggled in the first two race weekends of F1's new era and failing to start either car in the previous Grand Prix in China due to technical issues. However, they seemed more competitive throughout the opening day's practice running at Suzuka, with Piastri and Lando Norris demonstrating notable speed. Despite not bringing any aerodynamic updates to their car, unlike Red Bull and Ferrari, McLaren's performance has been encouraging, with Norris finishing fourth and ahead of the Ferraris, Mercedes' closest challenger in the opening two race weekends. The team's progress has been attributed to the hard work and determination of the drivers and the team, with Piastri stating that they have made some good progress and gathered valuable data. However, it is clear that there is still work to be done, and the focus remains on their own performance. The Japanese Grand Prix will continue on Saturday with Practice Three and Qualifying, followed by the main event on Sunday, all of which will be live on Sky Sports F1.