LAS VEGAS: Mercedes driver and defending Las Vegas Grand Prix winner George Russell topped the timesheets in Friday’s final free practice session, narrowly edging Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and Williams’ Alexander Albon. Russell clocked a best lap of 1:34.054, finishing 0.227 seconds ahead of the four-time world champion, while Albon trailed by 0.821 seconds in an impressive run for Williams.
With qualifying scheduled for later on Friday night along the iconic Las Vegas Strip, teams are also watching the skies, as rain threatens to disrupt the session.
Championship leader Lando Norris endured a difficult outing. The McLaren driver, who holds a 24-point lead over teammate Oscar Piastri, was hampered by an electrical issue that limited his track time. Norris had been the quickest in Thursday night’s second practice, a session marred by two red flags caused by a suspected loose drain cover.
Piastri’s session was also compromised, with the Australian losing telemetry and managing limited laps. As a result, he finished 19th, with Norris 20th, leaving McLaren with plenty of work ahead of qualifying.
