Watch Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix — Practice 2 Free.

What's at Stake

The second practice session at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is critical for establishing the pecking order ahead of the weekend's competitive sessions. With the 2026 technical regulations in full effect, teams must use this hour to gather essential data on energy recovery systems and aerodynamic efficiency on Montreal's unique stop-and-go layout. This session serves as the primary window for long-run simulations, determining which constructors have the best handle on tire degradation for Sunday’s race.

Form Guide

Heading into the Canadian Grand Prix, the championship battle has intensified as teams refine their power unit packages. Recent rounds have shown a tightening field, with the gap between the top three manufacturers shrinking significantly. Momentum is key in Montreal, a track that rewards bravery over the curbs and high-speed stability, making this session a litmus test for those who performed well in the previous European rounds.

Key Players to Watch

• Max Verstappen — The Dutchman remains the benchmark for consistency and will be looking to optimize his setup for the circuit's heavy braking zones.
• Lewis Hamilton — A perennial master of the Montreal track, Hamilton’s performance in high-traction areas will be a primary focus for the local fans.
• Oscar Piastri — Having shown remarkable growth in technical feedback, his ability to find the limit early in Practice 2 will be vital for his team's strategy.

Prediction

Expect the session to be topped by a driver from the current championship-leading team, likely focusing on a balance between low-drag qualifying trim and heavy-fuel stability. The times will likely tumble in the final fifteen minutes as the track rubbers in, with the top five drivers separated by less than three-tenths of a second. Reliability will be the ultimate decider, as several teams are expected to push their 2026 power units to the limit during the long-run simulations.