Hamilton Tops British GP Practice as Ferrari Form Surges at Silverstone

Posted : 04 July 2025

Lewis Hamilton rolled back the years on Friday at Silverstone, topping the timesheets in the opening practice session for the British Grand Prix. The seven-time world champion, now 40, clocked a fastest lap of 1:26.892—his best performance in a Friday session since joining Ferrari this season. He edged out McLaren's Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri in a closely contested outing, much to the delight of the home crowd at his favorite circuit.

Hamilton holds an unparalleled record at Silverstone, having won the British Grand Prix nine times, claimed seven pole positions, and stood on the podium 14 times—more than any other driver at their home race. This session marked his first time leading a practice this year, signaling a potential return to top form.

Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc finished fourth, followed by Mercedes’ George Russell. Racing Bulls rookie Isack Hadjar impressed in sixth, ahead of Williams’ Alex Albon and Liam Lawson in the second Racing Bulls car. Kimi Antonelli, testing for Mercedes, placed ninth, just ahead of four-time world champion Max Verstappen.

The day also brought notable off-track developments. Alpine announced Steve Nielsen’s return as managing director, effective September 1, following Oliver Oakes' departure as team principal in May. Nielsen, a veteran with experience across Benetton, Renault, and Lotus, will report to Alpine’s executive advisor Flavio Briatore.

Meanwhile, American racing official Tim Mayer confirmed his intention to challenge Mohammed Ben Sulayem for the FIA presidency in December. Mayer, the son of former McLaren boss Teddy Mayer, criticized the current leadership for failing to deliver on promises of transparency and governance.

On a cool day with changing track conditions, Hamilton was among the first to set competitive lap times. Norris and Russell briefly took turns at the top before the McLaren and Red Bull teams tested new floor upgrades. Notably, Red Bull gave rising F2 star Arvid Lindblad a run in Yuki Tsunoda’s car, while Alpine reserve driver Paul Aron replaced Nico Hulkenberg in the Sauber.

The session saw Pierre Gasly spin at Copse Corner, though he escaped without damage. After a switch from medium to soft tyres, Piastri and Norris took brief control before Hamilton responded with a commanding final lap. The Ferrari driver appeared more at ease than at any point this season, sparking excitement ahead of the weekend’s remaining sessions.

Hamilton Tops British GP Practice as Ferrari Form Surges at Silverstone

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics