What happened: Ferrari led the timing sheets in the opening practice session, establishing the benchmark pace early in the weekend. Aston Martin and Honda opened with a seventh-place effort, finishing 1.2 seconds adrift of the front-running car.

Why it matters: The opening gap provides a promising baseline for Aston Martin at a circuit anticipated to test the chassis and power unit package. Pacing the session maintains early momentum for Ferrari as teams dial in initial mechanical balance and aerodynamic trim.

What to watch: Teams will assess tire degradation and single-lap qualifying simulations during the second practice session.