20.09.2025 19:45
Based on information from various internet sources:
In an Azerbaijan Grand Prix qualifying session punctuated by a record-breaking six red flags and complicated by rain, Max Verstappen of Red Bull demonstrated mastery, capturing pole position. The Dutchman's impressive lap time of 1:41.117 not only secured his sixth pole of the season but also marked his inaugural triumph at the challenging Baku Street Circuit. Carlos Sainz, driving for Williams, will start in second place, having finished less than half a second behind Verstappen.
Following closely behind Sainz on the starting grid is Liam Lawson of Racing Bulls, who secured a noteworthy third-place qualifying position. The Mercedes duo of Andrea Kimi Antonelli and George Russell rounded out the top five, positioning themselves in fourth and fifth, respectively.
McLaren endured a challenging qualifying day, highlighted by championship leader Oscar Piastri's unfortunate crash at Turn 3. This incident triggered the unprecedented sixth red flag of the session with less than four minutes remaining in Q3. Adding to McLaren's woes, Lando Norris, Piastri's teammate and a title contender, was unable to capitalize on his teammate's misfortune, only managing to qualify in seventh, behind Yuki Tsunoda of Red Bull, while Isack Hadjar of Racing Bulls will line up behind him.
This missed opportunity could prove significant for Norris, who currently trails Piastri by 31 points in the championship standings as he pursues his first drivers' title. With Norris starting in P7 and Piastri in P9, both McLaren drivers will face a demanding race on Sunday, needing to make significant progress through the field, aiming for a one-two finish or to outscore Ferrari by nine points to secure the team's second championship victory.
