Mexico City Grand Prix Qualifying: Norris Edges Antonelli by 0.001s in Final Practice, Leclerc Eyes Pole

Lando Norris set the pace in final practice for the Mexico City Grand Prix, edging Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli by just 0.001 seconds at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez. The McLaren driver, who won from pole here last year, clocked 1:17.600 on soft tyres, while Antonelli recorded 1:17.601. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, fastest in both Friday sessions, was third as teams fine-tuned setups ahead of qualifying. Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies played down the ongoing Lawson-Verstappen dynamic, but all eyes are on the championship battle. Norris, 26, is chasing his first title, while 20-year-old Antonelli could become Italy’s first champion since 1953 if he delivers. With margins razor-thin, qualifying promises a tight fight between McLaren, Mercedes, and Ferrari. The high-altitude circuit tests engine cooling and downforce, making grid position crucial. As the sun sets in Mexico City, the stage is set for a dramatic shootout.