Mercedes' George Russell led the first practice session of the Formula 1 Mexican Grand Prix on Friday, which was interrupted by two red flags.

Russell set the fastest time of 1 minute and 17.998 seconds, beating Carlos Sainz's Ferrari by 0.317 seconds. Visa RB's Yuki Tsunoda finished third.

Three-time world champion Max Verstappen left the session with concerns about his Red Bull car when he returned to the pits five minutes before the end of practice complaining of engine problems.

The Dutchman finished fourth, while his teammate and home favorite Sergio Perez was tenth.

Verstappen is winless in nine Grand Prix races but leads the overall standings with 57 points ahead of title contender Lando Norris of McLaren.

Norris did not take part in the first practice session and was replaced by Patricion O'Ward as several reserve drivers had some track time.

Norris will look to boost his title hopes and take McLaren's first win in Mexico since Ayrton Senna in 1989.

The first red flag came at the start of the session after debris was discovered on the track. Verstappen reported he was caught in the wreckage and had to have his car repaired while the session continued.

The session was interrupted for a second time after Alex Albon's Williams crashed into the side of Oliver Bearman's Ferrari before hitting the barriers.

Bearman, who will drive for Haas next year, drove Charles Leclerc's car. The Brazilian Felipe Drugovich took over Fernando Alonso's Aston Martin, which will celebrate its 400th Grand Prix on Sunday.

The second training session takes place later on Friday. Qualification for Sunday's race will take place on Saturday after the last training session.