Verstappen leads first practice session at Belgian Grand Prix
ESPN F1 • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 17, 2026, 1:42 PM
Last updated Jul 17, 2026
Max Verstappen finished ahead of Lewis Hamilton during the first practice session for the Belgian Grand Prix on July 17, 2026. Mercedes struggled in the opening round of practice, trailing behind Verstappen's performance. The session sets the stage for the following competitive rounds leading up to the race. The teams will look to improve their setups ahead of qualifying.
- •Max Verstappen topped the first practice session.
- •Lewis Hamilton finished in second place.
- •Mercedes faced challenges in setting competitive times.
- •The Belgian Grand Prix weekend is ongoing.
- •Teams prepare for qualifying later this week.
- 2:14 PMESPN F1 — Verstappen tops first practice at Spa
"Max Verstappen saw off Lewis Hamilton as Mercedes trailed in opening practice for the Belgian Grand Prix.
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