Lando Norris delivered a commanding performance in opening practice at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, setting the pace in his upgraded McLaren ahead of new world champion Kimi Antonelli. According to Sky Sports, Norris's fastest lap of 1:11.717 proved enough to edge out Antonelli by 0.082 seconds, signalling that McLaren's fresh aerodynamic package could make them genuine contenders this weekend.
The Woking team have introduced a new front wing, rear wing, beam wing and floor furniture to their car, marking a significant upgrade despite most rivals concentrating their resources on 2027 development. The immediate impact was evident as Norris demonstrated McLaren's improved competitiveness, a stark contrast to their struggles in recent races.
Red Bull's Max Verstappen claimed third place, finishing 0.236 seconds adrift of the session leader, while Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton rounded out the top four, 0.324 seconds behind Norris. George Russell, who had expressed frustration about his run of misfortune on Thursday, secured fifth position in first practice, with Red Bull's Isack Hadjar rounding out the top six.
The FP1 results underlined McLaren's progress, though the team remains focused on maximising their upgrades across the remainder of the weekend at Interlagos. This is Round 20 of the season, with the championship fight reaching its climax.
Mercedes hold a significant advantage in the Constructors' Championship battle, needing to outscore Ferrari by three points or more on Sunday to secure the title. The Silver Arrows' mathematical advantage reflects their consistency throughout the season, though Ferrari will be determined to mount a challenge in the final race.
Antonelli, who was crowned world champion last weekend following his podium finish in Mexico City, is honouring three-time Formula 1 world champion Ayrton Senna with a special helmet design in tribute to the Brazilian legend. The gesture reflects the significance of racing at Interlagos, Senna's home circuit.
Norris's earlier doubts about whether McLaren's upgrades would resolve the car's handling difficulties appear to have been allayed by the evidence of first practice. The British driver had expressed uncertainty heading into the weekend, but the performance gap over Antonelli suggests the new components have delivered the performance gains the team required.
What happens next
Qualifying takes place on Saturday, November 7, at 15:00 local time, with the 71-lap Grand Prix scheduled for Sunday, November 8, at 14:00 local time. Second practice runs on Friday evening, offering teams a further opportunity to refine their setups ahead of the qualifying battle.
