Antonelli bests Russell as Mercedes shines on Day 3 in Barcelona

Kimi Antonelli reportedly set the fastest time during Day 3 of the 2026 Barcelona pre-season test.

After George Russell was quickest during the morning session at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, his Italian teammate went even faster in the afternoon. Antonelli unofficially clocked a 1:17.382 after taking over the W17 from Russell.

Alpine also switched drivers during the day. Franco Colapinto drove during the morning session, before Pierre Gasly took over in the afternoon.

For the first time this week, the new MCL40 also completed its first laps in 2026. Lando Norris sat it the car today, now carrying the #1 on the car following his world championship success.

After two red flags during the morning, another followed during the afternoon session when the Racing Bulls car, driven by Arvid Lindblad, stopped on track. The cause of the issue remains unknown, but the young Briton could continue doing laps after the VCARB03 was recovered by a crane and returned to the garage.

Lindblad caused the only red flag on Wednesday afternoon, but he could continue doing laps afterwards - Photo: Red Bull Content Pool

Unofficial times - Day 3 of the 2026 Barcelona pre-season test

1. Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) - 1:17.362

2. George Russell (Mercedes) - 1:17.580

3. Lando Norris (McLaren) - 1:18.307

4. Franco Colapinto (Alpine) - 1:19.150

5. Pierre Gasly (Alpine) - 1:19.297

6. Oliver Bearman (Haas) - 1:19.314

7. Arvid Lindblad (Racing Bulls) - 1:19.420

8. Nico Hulkenberg (Audi) - 1:21.010

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