Piastri Tops McLaren in F1 Japanese GP Practice

0:00It's March 27. You're listening to F1 News today, AI-powered coverage of your team. I'm Cory with the story. Oscar Piaestry put McLaren on top in second practice for the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix, clocking 1 minute 30.13 seconds. To beat Mercedes-Kimi Antonelli by just 0.09 seconds. George Russell rounded out the top three for Mercedes. Mercedes had swept first and second in opening practice, but Piaestry dominated one's team switched to soft tires. Lando Norris Shikov early troubles to take fourth for McLaren, keeping the fight tight among the leaders. The session highlights how balanced things are under Formula 1's new 2026 rules, with Mercedes, McLaren, and Ferrari all flashing, strong pace. Mercedes tops the constructor's standings with 98 points, while Russell leads drivers with 51 ahead of Antonelli's 47. Final practice runs at 11.30 local time on March 28. Start by qualifying at 3pm that day.

1:01The race starts Sunday at 2pm, with dry weather expected, and temperatures climbing from 15 to 19 degrees Celsius. Heading into qualifying at Suzuki, this could shape up as the closest grid yet this season, setting the stage for an intense weekend battle.