LIVE: Thrilling 2025 F1 Spanish Grand Prix Qualifying Action

Live action from the 2025 F1 Spanish Grand Prix continues at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, with qualifying underway as teams fight to secure the best grid spots. McLaren has looked strong all weekend, with Oscar Piastri setting the fastest times in both the second and third practice sessions, and Lando Norris close behind.

Heading into qualifying, Piastri leads Norris by just three points in the drivers’ standings, adding extra pressure for both drivers as they compete for pole position at this key event. Piastri’s pace in practice has been a standout, improving McLaren’s outlook for the rest of the weekend.

The session is scheduled for 3:00 pm BST and will be available to watch on television, with viewers in the UK tuning in via Sky and US fans watching on ESPN. The battle for pole is even more important here, as the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is known for making it hard to overtake during the race.

Only three winners since 1991 have started from outside the front row, those being Michael Schumacher, Fernando Alonso, and Max Verstappen. As the qualifying session draws closer, teams continue to fine-tune their setups.

Williams had a tough Thursday and Friday, with Carlos Sainz finishing 13th and Alex Albon 19th in the final practice, reflecting their ongoing development struggles. Fernando Alonso, who has not scored any points this season, remains upbeat.

He has spoken throughout the weekend about the challenges he faces and his determination to keep racing at a high level. Lewis Hamilton faced gearbox issues late in the practice sessions.

However, new regulations introduced this year mean drivers will not receive penalties for unscheduled gearbox changes. This gives Hamilton and his team more flexibility as they prepare the car for qualifying. This season’s updates have also sparked some debate among teams around McLaren and rule clashes.

Meanwhile, Max Verstappen ended FP3 a full 0.988 seconds off Piastri’s fastest lap, although he was on used tires. With a new set of tires, Verstappen could pose a stronger challenge once the real qualifying action begins. His ongoing battle for the title has kept eyes on his performance all season (Verstappen’s F1 title trait).

The third practice also brought moments that tested driver skill and highlighted the intensity of free practice in Spain. Norris had a close call, saving his car after losing control at the fast Campsa corner.

There was also a brief incident involving Norris in a minor accident, but he quickly recovered and returned to the pits with minimal impact on his session. The top teams are now reviewing performance data and making final strategy decisions as the all-important qualifying laps approach.

Mercedes has a record of strong performances at the Spanish circuit, with George Russell and Lewis Hamilton both posting competitive times in practice. Many eyes are on the team as they hope to convert their pace into a front-row start.

The flexi-wing debate continues this weekend, with the FIA enforcing tighter rules to maintain fairness in competition and ensure teams operate within the technical guidelines (flexi-wing debate Spanish GP). The Spanish Grand Prix remains a favorite stop for drivers, teams, and fans, known for its demanding track and as a place where new car upgrades are tested.

With Madrid set to become the new Spanish venue in 2026, this year’s race in Barcelona holds extra meaning. The build-up, strong performances from McLaren, and technical challenges faced by rivals set the stage for an exciting qualifying outcome and a thrilling race ahead.

John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.