P1racenews AI automatic summary:
With a new upgrade on that RB21, Max Verstappen has laid down a solid platform for the rest of the weekend.
Max Verstappen continued his strong performance by setting the fastest time in the first practice session for the Mexican Grand Prix. Several current F1 drivers, including Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris, were absent from FP1, in line with FIA regulations that allowed rookies to take their places. Verstappen’s recent successes, winning three of the last four races, have positioned him as a top contender for qualifying and the race, narrowing the gap to championship leader Oscar Piastri. Piastri, who previously held a 104-point advantage over Verstappen, has faced setbacks in the last few races, resulting in a diminished lead. Verstappen’s impressive lap time of 1:17.392s, achieved with the latest upgrades on his RB21, showcased the adjustments needed for the high-altitude conditions in Mexico City. He finished ahead of Charles Leclerc and Kimi Antonelli in the timesheets, with Piastri struggling in 12th place, 0.840s behind the leader.
