McLaren unleashed a spectacular performance at Silverstone on Friday, sending shockwaves through the Formula 1 paddock as their papaya-orange cars dominated both practice sessions for the British Grand Prix.
Lando Norris sent an early warning to his rivals by topping the timesheets in the first practice session, before his teammate Oscar Piastri completed McLaren's perfect Friday by going fastest in the more representative second practice under the Silverstone sunshine.
Silverstone Turns Papaya as McLaren Shows Serious Pace
The Woking-based team's stunning performance has immediately established them as genuine contenders for victory at their home grand prix. While many teams were evaluating upgrade packages, McLaren's existing package proved exceptionally well-suited to the high-speed demands of the Northamptonshire circuit.
Norris's morning benchmark of 1:27.420 was already impressive, but it was Piastri's afternoon lap of 1:26.522 that truly turned heads. The Australian's time left him nearly four-tenths clear of the competition, demonstrating a pace that could prove decisive in qualifying.
Rivals Left Playing Catch-Up
The usual suspects found themselves unusually off the pace, with Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton and George Russell finishing fifth and sixth respectively in the second session. World champion Max Verstappen could only manage fourth for Red Bull, nearly half a second adrift of Piastri's blistering lap.
Ferrari also struggled to match McLaren's rhythm, with Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz finishing seventh and eighth, suggesting the Italian team has significant work to do overnight to close the gap.
Home Heroes Ready for Silverstone Battle
With both British drivers - Norris and Hamilton - enjoying strong support from the packed grandstands, the stage is set for a thrilling qualifying battle on Saturday. McLaren's performance suggests they could secure their first front-row lockout at Silverstone in years, potentially repeating their spectacular form from previous races this season.
The team's upgrades, including a revised front wing and floor, appear to be working in perfect harmony with the circuit characteristics. As the sun sets on Friday, McLaren has emerged as the team to beat, setting up what promises to be an unforgettable British Grand Prix weekend.
