Formula One drivers begin practice sessions for the Madrid Grand Prix

Formula One drivers head to the track in Madrid today for the first and second free practice sessions of the race weekend. The new street circuit features a narrow, twisty layout that several drivers described as challenging during simulator preparations. Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton enter the weekend under pressure following an intra-team collision during the race in Monza. George Russell seeks to recover his championship form after a late tyre strategy error cost him a potential result at the previous event. Red Bull replacement drivers Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda continue their stints, while Isack Hadjar remains sidelined. Carlos Sainz Jr and Fernando Alonso represent the home field in Spain, both aiming for improved grid positioning and potential points finishes.

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