Max Verstappen Storms to Pole in Saudi Arabian Qualifying – 2025
April 20, 2025
Image via Motorsport.com — editorial use only.
Verstappen's Flying Lap Secures Pole in Jeddah
The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix qualifying session delivered high-stakes drama and razor-thin margins as Max Verstappen snatched pole position with a jaw-dropping lap.
Under the lights of the rapid-fire Jeddah Corniche Circuit, Verstappen reminded the world why he's the reigning world champion. The Red Bull driver nailed a near-perfect 1:27.294, edging out McLaren's Oscar Piastri by just 0.010 seconds.
With Jeddah's high-speed, wall-lined layout offering no room for error, Verstappen’s precision and aggression were on full display — just enough to secure his third pole of the 2025 season.
Lando Norris Hits the Wall After Dominating Q2
The shock of the session came in Q3, where championship leader Lando Norris — after topping both FP3 and Q2 — crashed out in dramatic fashion.
His McLaren made heavy contact with the wall midway through his final push lap, bringing out the red flag and abruptly ending his qualifying charge. Norris will start the race from P10, visibly frustrated, knowing he had the pace to challenge for pole.
“Gutted. It was mine to lose — and I did.” — Norris to Sky Sports
Russell on Row 2, Leclerc and Antonelli Close Behind
Mercedes’ George Russell will start P3 after a tidy final lap, followed by Charles Leclerc (P4) for Ferrari and impressive rookie Kimi Antonelli (P5) — continuing to impress in his debut season.
Remaining Top Ten:
- Carlos Sainz (Williams) – P6
- Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) – P7
- Yuki Tsunoda (Red Bull) – P8
- Pierre Gasly (Alpine) – P9
- Lando Norris (McLaren) – P10
Notably, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll failed to make Q3 during Aston Martin’s 100th Grand Prix appearance — a disappointing milestone.
The Title Fight Tightens
With Norris starting from P10 and Verstappen back in command, Sunday’s Grand Prix sets the stage for a pivotal showdown. The Dutchman has the clear track and clear intent — and if McLaren can't recover strategically, the title momentum could shift dramatically.
Image via Motorsport.com — editorial use only.
🏁 What to Expect on Race Day
- Turn 1 drama is likely given the tightly packed front three
- Pit strategy will be key — expect a one-stopper
- Watch for safety cars — Jeddah is notorious for them
📰 Sources
- The Guardian
- Reuters
- F1TV broadcast insights