Antonelli needs ninth place to become youngest F1 champion

Formula 1 drivers faced high-altitude conditions in Mexico City on Friday as they prepared for the weekend race. The session served as a physical test for engines and drivers at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.

Kimi Antonelli of Mercedes finished second and fourth in the two free practice sessions. The 20-year-old Italian is currently positioned to become the youngest world champion in the sport's history. He missed a Thursday media session due to a viral infection but appeared effective on track during Friday's runs.

Antonelli needs to finish no lower than ninth in Sunday's race to secure the title. This threshold would break the record for youngest champion, a mark held by Sebastian Vettel since 2010. Antonelli could also win the championship without scoring points if a driver other than Lewis Hamilton or George Russell takes the victory.

Charles Leclerc of Ferrari led both practice sessions, showing strong form after finishing third in the previous two races. In the second session, Lando Norris finished second, followed by George Russell in third. Frederik Vesti, Mercedes reserve driver, also recorded a third-place time early in the day.

Lewis Hamilton experienced a technical issue during the second practice session. The seven-time world champion reported losing power around the middle of the run. He stated over the radio that something was wrong with the car, specifically losing all power in turn 13. Ferrari team staff instructed him to stop the car off the track.

Max Verstappen and Liam Lawson were called to the stewards after contact between their cars triggered a red flag. Lawson said Verstappen came onto him, a move he described as happening every weekend. Verstappen called the behavior unintelligent. Both drivers will face officials regarding the incident.

Colton Herta drove for Cadillac in the first practice session, taking the seat of Valtteri Bottas. Herta finished last in that session, 3.237 seconds behind Leclerc. He is attempting to secure enough points for an F1 superlicense, which would qualify him for a seat next season. Cadillac has not scored a championship point since joining the series this year.