Crucial braking, hidden traction: Williams stands out
The first free practice session of the Canadian GP proved to be largely inconclusive in terms of performance. With the track still very dirty and the conditions far from what will really matter, the findings should be taken with caution. However, a few early signs have emerged, particularly regarding braking and traction, the two key elements—alongside kerb handling—on the Gilles Villeneuve circuit.
It quickly became clear who was able to push a little harder under braking, considering the still-conservative engine mappings that hide much of the traction potential of the cars. This was the case for Williams, surprisingly strong especially under braking in the first sector, where Alex Albon even set the overall best time. The FW47 appeared strong at the front end and capable of delivering stability under heavy load transfer, combined with a good engine response on the straights.
Red Bull’s work was more linear, seeming to start from a solid base this time, contrary to previous outings. The RB21 showed good overall balance and no clear issues, with a strong front end under braking and good straight-line efficiency, particularly, as always, with the DRS open.
A more complicated session for McLaren, which juggled aerodynamic experiments, traffic, and a still-unrefined balance. At times, the car looked too nervous under braking, with the rear lightening and locking up; at other times, it was too “front-loaded,” meaning the front responded too aggressively, making it hard to drive. In other instances, there was understeer on entry, making the car difficult to manage mid-corner. Curiously down on engine power, Stella’s team needs to work especially on the interaction between mechanical and aerodynamic components to find the right balance between both axles—ensuring enough front end at corner entry and strong rear traction at exit. This is a delicate area, precisely affected by the recent technical directive on front wings introduced in Spain, which likely disrupted McLaren’s reference setup (hence the constant-speed aero tests and flow-vis). However, they are expected to quickly recover and be back at the front by FP2.
Ferrari working steadily, without flashes
Ferrari started well, especially with Charles Leclerc, who then made a misjudgement early in the session, hitting the barriers. Left with only Lewis Hamilton on track, it seemed the Briton was focused on finding the best balance, without really pushing either in terms of driving or engine performance. Nonetheless, the data showed some glimpses, such as good traction exiting the hairpin and excellent corner entries in turns 3-4 and 8-9. Less convincing were the turn 6-7 complex and the exit of the final chicane, where the SF-25 seemed less precise and less effective.
A separate mention goes to grip, practically nonexistent at the beginning of the session. The track was extremely slippery, as often happens on Fridays here, and so non-aggressive on the tyres that drivers were seen weaving to warm up the C6 compound, the softest available. A clear sign that temperatures and grip are still far from the optimal window. We’ll see if FP2 provides more answers, especially if conditions improve and work begins on qualifying and race pace.
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