Hamilton and Bearman crash in final practice at Spanish Grand Prix, highlighting Madrid circuit risks
Lewis Hamilton and Oliver Bearman both crashed during the final practice session at the new Madrid circuit, prompting a red flag and a brief stoppage, while Kimi Antonelli set the fastest time.
Lewis Hamilton lost control of his Ferrari at the final corner of the new Madrid circuit during the final practice session of the Spanish Grand Prix, breaking the car's front wing and eventually retiring to the pits. Oliver Bearman later spun his Haas into the barriers at Turn 10, bringing the session to an early end. The incidents prompted officials to stop the session clock to allow barrier repairs, a rare measure on the track.
The session resumed with 15 minutes remaining, and Kimi Antonelli posted the quickest lap, beating Charles Leclerc's previous benchmark by 0.166 seconds. McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri moved into third and fourth places, ahead of Red Bull's Max Verstappen and Mercedes' George Russell. Hamilton finished ninth overall, with his fastest time set early in the session.
Aston Martin's Lance Stroll will start the race from the back of the grid after exceeding the allowed number of engine components for the season. Qualifying is scheduled to begin at 14:30 BST, followed by the first qualifying segment at 15:00 BST.