Norris Leads Friday Practice at Belgian GP, Verstappen 3rd Despite Penalty

Lando Norris was fastest in Friday's practice at the Belgian Grand Prix, followed by McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri and Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who faces a 10-place grid penalty. Despite leading the timesheets, Norris expressed discomfort with his car's setup. Rain is expected on Saturday for final practice and qualification.

Lando Norris led the timesheets in Friday's practice at the Belgian Grand Prix, outperforming his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri and Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who is set to face a 10-place grid penalty.

Verstappen's team chose to take on a fifth engine at Spa, where overtaking is relatively easier. Having won from 14th on the grid two years ago, the three-time champion aims for a repeat performance despite not winning in three races. McLaren’s recent form, evidenced by Piastri’s victory last weekend, continues to shine with Norris posting an impressive one minute and 42.260 seconds.

However, Norris admitted to not feeling entirely comfortable with his car, despite the fast lap time. Optimistic nonetheless, he hopes for improvements and a better rhythm come Saturday. The Ferrari drivers showed promise, while Mercedes struggled. Esteban Ocon faced technical issues but rallied to seventh fastest, and rain is expected to challenge final practice and qualification.