Max Verstappen set the pace in Free Practice 3 at the 2026 Formula 1® Brazilian Grand Prix, narrowly edging out Mercedes rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli. Verstappen’s fastest lap of 1:11.622 put him just 0.025 seconds ahead of Antonelli, highlighting the close competition as the weekend progressed towards qualifying.
The session was marked by a late rush as teams scrambled to complete laps ahead of an anticipated rain shower. Antonelli initially led the running on medium tyres, but Verstappen’s switch to soft tyres allowed him to take the top spot. Lando Norris secured third fastest, followed closely by George Russell and Charles Leclerc, with the top five drivers separated by just 0.274 seconds.
Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton faced mechanical difficulties with his Ferrari, experiencing unusual vibrations, significant engine braking, and smoke inside the cockpit. These issues limited Hamilton to 12th place in the session, and he was unable to complete any laps on the softer tyre compound. Lance Stroll also retired early due to a suspected ERS problem, adding to the technical challenges seen during FP3.
Other notable performances included Nico Hulkenberg returning to track action after missing FP2 due to an earlier incident, finishing 13th fastest in his Audi. Rookie Rafael Camara outpaced his Haas teammate Oliver Bearman, while Racing Bulls drivers Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad showed promising pace in the midfield battles. The session underlined the tight margins and technical challenges teams face on the Interlagos circuit.
The close times among the leading teams suggest a competitive qualifying session ahead, with Red Bull Racing and Mercedes showing strong pace. Ferrari’s mechanical setbacks in FP3 will require attention as they prepare for qualifying, while McLaren and other midfield teams continue to push for improved performance.
This Free Practice 3 session set the tone for the remainder of the weekend, with teams balancing the need for speed against the threat of rain. The developments on track provide a snapshot of the challenges and opportunities facing drivers as they aim to secure strong grid positions in Brazil.