Lando Norris reported his brakes were 'on fire' during Free Practice Two at the Austrian Grand Prix on Friday, as the FIA cleared Ferrari's rear-braking system after an investigation into Lewis Hamilton's winning car from Barcelona.
Norris Complains of Brake Issues
During FP2 at the Red Bull Ring, Lando Norris told his McLaren team over the radio: 'My brakes have been on fire for like five laps.' However, the team confirmed the brakes were not actually on fire. Norris finished third in the session with a lap of 1:07.339, 0.325 seconds behind leader Kimi Antonelli.
FIA Clears Ferrari After Investigation
The FIA conducted an 'extensive physical inspection' of Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari rear-brake system after his victory at the Barcelona Grand Prix. Technical Delegate Jo Bauer confirmed all components complied with the 2026 Technical Regulations. The inspection covered hardware articles C11.1 through C11.6 and software checks on brake control systems.
Antonelli Dominates Practice
Kimi Antonelli topped both practice sessions for Mercedes. In FP2, he set a fastest lap of 1:07.014, 0.237 seconds ahead of Oscar Piastri and 0.550 seconds ahead of Max Verstappen. Lewis Hamilton was fifth, 0.597 seconds off the pace. George Russell finished sixth after missing track time due to car work.
Mercedes Ordered to Modify Car
The FIA ordered Mercedes to modify the rear of their car after a rule clarification. The issue involved serrated wedges on the diffuser that provided aerodynamic gain. Ferrari and other teams argued these were a safety risk. Tech analyst Bernie Collins explained that Mercedes had to grind off the extended tabs to comply.
Heat Hazard Declared for Race
The FIA issued a heat hazard warning for the Austrian Grand Prix after forecasts exceeded the trigger point. Race Director Rui Marques notified teams that the Heat Index would surpass 31.0°C during the race, requiring driver cooling systems to be fitted.
Russell Warns of Hamilton Threat
George Russell expressed concern about Lewis Hamilton's form after his first Ferrari win in Barcelona. 'You need yourself, your team, the setup, the understanding of the tyres, everything just to click. And when it clicks, you fly. And for sure, he is a big threat. Ferrari are a huge threat,' Russell said.
Leclerc Expects Mercedes Advantage
Charles Leclerc admitted Ferrari may struggle on the straights at the Red Bull Ring, saying: 'In overall competitiveness, I still believe Mercedes will be the fastest car. However, there are longer straights, so the power units of Mercedes is better at the moment.'
Norris Admits McLaren Behind
Lando Norris said McLaren is 'three months behind' rivals in development. 'That's a lot of bits, so I don't think we're going to be quickest any time soon. Hopefully over the next three, four, five months, we can catch up and narrow the gap,' he said.
