Verstappen Snatches Pole from Norris in Thrilling Japanese Grand Prix Qualifying
Formula 1 returned to the iconic Suzuka Circuit in style, with reigning world champion Max Verstappen pulling off a sensational final-lap performance to take pole position for the Japanese Grand Prix, edging out McLaren’s Lando Norris by a razor-thin margin of 0.012 seconds.
Surprise Turnaround from Red Bull
Despite trailing behind McLaren for much of the weekend, Verstappen delivered a stunning lap when it mattered most. His Red Bull team, visibly amazed, could hardly believe the turnaround. Race engineer Giampiero Lambiase called it “insane,” a sentiment echoed by Norris, who praised Verstappen’s lap despite narrowly missing out on pole himself.
“I feel like I got everything out of the car,” Norris said. “It was a great lap, but Max just had a little more today.”
Tight Margins Define the Top Grid Spots
Oscar Piastri, who initially led the final session, settled for third place. He admitted his last attempt didn’t quite click, though he remains optimistic for race day: “It’s still all to play for tomorrow.”
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Mercedes’ George Russell rounded out the top five, while Lewis Hamilton could only manage eighth, citing struggles with car setup and rear grip in Q3.
Mixed Fortunes Across the Grid
Home hero Yuki Tsunoda, recently promoted to partner Verstappen, had a disappointing outing. After a scrappy second session and tyre prep issues, he qualified only 15th, behind Racing Bulls' Liam Lawson, the very driver he replaced. Tsunoda described his lap as “messy” and expressed frustration over missed potential.
Meanwhile, rookies continued to impress—Oliver Bearman in the Haas secured a strong 10th-place start, outperforming his veteran teammate Esteban Ocon, who qualified 18th.
Drama Off the Track: Grass Fires and Delays
Qualifying was briefly halted due to yet another grass fire at the 130R corner — the fifth such incident of the weekend. Officials had tried preventive measures, including watering the grass, but fire risks remained a concern. While preemptive controlled burning was considered, it was ruled out due to safety and time constraints. With rain forecast overnight, how the FIA addresses these recurring fire hazards before the race remains to be seen.
Verstappen’s Joy at Suzuka Masterclass
For Verstappen, this pole position held special meaning. Suzuka is known as one of the most technically demanding circuits in Formula 1, and delivering a lap on the edge thrilled the Dutchman.
“We worked session by session to fine-tune the car,” Verstappen said. “The final lap was fully committed. It felt amazing to push the limits around a track like this.”
His pole position was even more impressive considering Red Bull's shaky start to the season. Now, all eyes turn to Sunday’s race, where strategy, weather, and resilience will determine who stands on top in Japan.
🔍 Quick Race Facts
-
📍 Circuit: Suzuka, Japan
-
⏱️ Race Start: 06:00 BST, Sunday
-
🔊 Live Commentary: BBC Radio 5 Live from 05:30
-
🌦️ Weather Watch: Rain expected overnight