P1racenews AI automatic summary:
George Russell topped the headline times in Canadian GP practice – but who was quickest over the long runs? Here’s Mark Hughes’s analysis
Mercedes appears to be performing well in the cooler conditions of Montreal, showcasing its ability to generate tire temperatures effectively compared to other teams. George Russell and Kimi Antonelli were able to set impressive times on the medium C5 tire, proving its competitiveness. Russell was fastest in both single lap and long runs, highlighting the team’s strong performance.
The FP2 long run averages further demonstrated Mercedes’ speed, with Russell leading the pack. Antonelli also showed solid performance with the newer Imola-spec rear suspension, providing a potential upgrade for the team. Russell expressed optimism about the team’s performance in the cooler conditions, emphasizing the challenges of tire strategy for qualifying.
Aside from Mercedes, McLaren and Red Bull showcased competitive performances, with Verstappen and Norris closely matched. Verstappen’s long run average was comparable to Piastri’s, despite some balance issues during FP2. Verstappen remains positive about the team’s performance and potential for improvement in qualifying. Overall, the competition is intense, with tire strategy playing a crucial role in determining success.
