Red Bull Ring FP2 dominated by Antonelli while Pérez endures second mechanical failure

Italian rookie Kimi Antonelli posted the fastest time in the second free‑practice session at the Red Bull Ring, clocking 1:07.014 and completing the first double‑practice win of the 2026 season. His Mercedes‑powered car topped the timing sheets ahead of McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, while the leading championship contenders Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton were fourth and fifth respectively.

Cadillac’s Mexican driver Sergio Pérez suffered a repeat mechanical issue during the same session. After an ECU replacement failed to resolve the problem, his car stalled again, prompting a Virtual Safety Car. The team’s troubles were compounded when teammate Valtteri Bottas experienced a fire in the rear of his MAC‑26 chassis.

Other notable moves included George Russell retaining pole position and Charles Leclerc climbing to eighth after a return stint, while Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and teammate Carlos Sainz struggled to make progress in the Austrian Grand Prix weekend.