F1 – Russell beats Antonelli as Mercedes lock out front row for Canada Sprint

George Russell took Sprint pole for the Canadian Grand Prix after edging Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli by 0.068 seconds in Montreal.

The result gave Mercedes a front-row lockout for Saturday's Sprint at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, with Antonelli qualifying second ahead of Lando Norris in third.

Formula 1's official report and the FIA both confirmed the result after Sprint qualifying on May 22, 2026. Reuters also reported the Mercedes one-two later the same day.

The performance underlined Mercedes' pace over one lap and set up the team for a strong starting position in the Sprint, where the first points of the weekend will be on offer.

The immediate question is whether Mercedes can convert the front row into Sprint points, and whether any post-session penalties or technical developments alter the grid before the race.