# Red Bull's Strong Start at Belgian Grand Prix

- Topic: football
- Source: Sky Sports
- Published: 2026-07-17
- Original: https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12040/13564258/belgian-gp-max-verstappen-tops-lewis-hamilton-as-mercedes-struggle-in-spa-francorchamps-first-practice
- Language: en
- Image: https://e0.365dm.com/26/07/1920x1080/skysports-max-verstappen-red-bull_7299915.jpg?20260717130429

Max Verstappen topped the timesheet in the first practice session at the Belgian Grand Prix, with Red Bull showing a strong pace. Mercedes struggled, with championship leader Kimi Antonelli finishing sixth. The team is investigating a potential issue with his engine.

## Key takeaways

- Max Verstappen was the fastest driver in the first practice session.
- Red Bull's strong performance suggests they may have a competitive car for the Belgian Grand Prix.
- Mercedes struggled, with Kimi Antonelli finishing sixth and George Russell eighth.

> Summary by Daily Read Bytes. Read the original at https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12040/13564258/belgian-gp-max-verstappen-tops-lewis-hamilton-as-mercedes-struggle-in-spa-francorchamps-first-practice