Leclerc Tops First Practice at Mexico City Grand Prix, Antonelli Close Behind

Charles Leclerc set the fastest time in first practice for the Mexico City Grand Prix, leading Kimi Antonelli by a narrow margin. The Ferrari driver's pace at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez suggests the team could be competitive this weekend, while Antonelli's strong showing in the Mercedes-powered car signals a potential challenge from the young driver. Leclerc's lap of 1:17.887 was just 0.076 seconds quicker than Antonelli, with the top two separated by less than a tenth of a second. The session ran in warm, sunny conditions, with track temperatures reaching 40°C, which will be a key factor in tyre management for Sunday's race. With the championship already decided in Antonelli's favor, attention turns to the battle for second place and the constructors' standings, where Ferrari and McLaren are locked in a tight fight. Leclerc's early pace could be a warning shot to rivals, but Friday practice times often shift as teams refine setups. The real test will come in qualifying, where grid position is crucial on a circuit known for its long run to the first corner.