Final practice for the 2025 Canadian Grand Prix saw Lando Norris take the spotlight, topping the session with an impressive lap. The McLaren driver was just 0.078 seconds ahead of Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who bounced back from a rough Friday in style.
Norris and Leclerc traded quick laps during the hour-long session, each finding rhythm as track conditions evolved. The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve was dry and relatively calm, making it a clean run for most of the field.
Leclerc’s Comeback Sets the Tone
After a crash in FP1 and missing FP2, Leclerc returned determined. Early in the session, he set the benchmark on Medium tyres. His confidence grew, and he later produced a 1:11.877 to slot into second. It was a strong signal that Ferrari was back in business for qualifying.
Russell, Hamilton and Verstappen Stay Close
Mercedes’ George Russell continued his form from last year in Montréal, briefly holding P1 with a strong 1:11.960. His teammate Kimi Antonelli also made the top ten. Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton, still adapting to his new team, delivered a solid P4, while Max Verstappen climbed to fifth despite a slow start.
Power and Pace Under the Hood
Norris’ McLaren-Mercedes proved quick on Soft tyres, showing solid one-lap pace with a best time of 1:11.799 at 218.660 km/h. Leclerc’s Ferrari wasn’t far off at 218.423 km/h, and Russell’s Mercedes clocked in at 218.201 km/h. The session showed that top teams are extracting every bit of performance ahead of a tight qualifying battle.
Key Incidents and Red Flags
Midway through the session, Oscar Piastri brought out the red flag after brushing the Wall of Champions. He suffered a puncture and rim damage but made it back to the pits. His teammate Norris made up for the lost momentum, keeping McLaren’s hopes alive.
Yuki Tsunoda had a frustrating session, spending most of it in the garage with brake issues. He returned late but remained at the bottom of the standings. He’s also under investigation for a potential red flag violation.
Final Standings – FP3
- Lando Norris (McLaren/Mercedes) – 1:11.799
- Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) – 1:11.877
- George Russell (Mercedes) – 1:11.950
- Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) – 1:12.050
- Max Verstappen (Red Bull/Honda RBPT) – 1:12.072
- Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin/Mercedes) – 1:12.247
- Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) – 1:12.348
- Oscar Piastri (McLaren/Mercedes) – 1:12.519
- Carlos Sainz (Williams/Mercedes) – 1:12.519
- Alexander Albon (Williams/Mercedes) – 1:12.573
- Isack Hadjar (Racing Bulls/Honda RBPT) – 1:12.651
- Pierre Gasly (Alpine/Renault) – 1:12.684
- Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls/Honda RBPT) – 1:12.791
- Lance Stroll (Aston Martin/Mercedes) – 1:12.794
- Oliver Bearman (Haas/Ferrari) – 1:12.825
- Esteban Ocon (Haas/Ferrari) – 1:12.827
- Franco Colapinto (Alpine/Renault) – 1:13.060
- Nico Hülkenberg (Sauber/Ferrari) – 1:13.072
- Gabriel Bortoleto (Sauber/Ferrari) – 1:13.172
- Yuki Tsunoda (Red Bull/Honda RBPT) – 1:13.573
Summary
With Norris showing strong pace and Leclerc making a determined return, the stage is set for a thrilling qualifying session. Mercedes and Ferrari look evenly matched, while Red Bull may have more to find. Montréal always delivers drama , and this weekend seems no different.
Disclaimer: Performance details are based on Free Practice 3 timing and subject to change based on further sessions.