Lando Norris has secured pole position for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix in a dramatic qualifying session at Interlagos! The McLaren driver delivered a stunning final lap to clock a time of 1m 09.511s, edging out Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli, who continues to impress with another front-row start.
Qualifying Shocks and Surprises
The qualifying session was full of surprises. Championship contender Oscar Piastri could only manage fourth position, while reigning world champion Max Verstappen suffered a shock Q1 exit, qualifying a lowly 16th. This is the first time in four years that Verstappen has failed to make it out of Q1, putting immense pressure on him to recover in the race.
Race Start Drama
The race start was equally eventful. Norris managed to hold onto the lead from Antonelli, but there was drama further back. Gabriel Bortoleto crashed out on the opening lap after contact with Lance Stroll, bringing out the safety car. Lewis Hamilton also had a difficult start, clipping Franco Colapinto's car and damaging his front wing, forcing him into the pits for repairs.
Norris the Favourite?
With Verstappen starting so far back, Lando Norris is now the firm favourite to win the race. He has the opportunity to extend his lead over Piastri and Verstappen in the championship standings. Can he convert his pole position into a victory? Tune in to Sky Sports F1 to find out!
- Norris on pole
- Antonelli second
- Verstappen P16 after Q1 exit
- Bortoleto crashes out
- Hamilton front wing damage