F1 Sprint Qualifying Results: Verstappen Struggles as McLaren Dominates Brazil Pole
Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen endured a difficult session during sprint qualifying at the Brazilian Grand Prix. Driving the RB21, the Dutch driver described his Red Bull as:
"completely broken" and "undriveable"
His struggles allowed rival and current championship leader Lando Norris to claim pole position for the sprint race in São Paulo. This achievement marks Norris’ first sprint pole since Qatar 2024 and his first of the season in the 100 km format.
Top Performers in Sprint Qualifying
- Kimi Antonelli delivered a strong performance by placing his Mercedes second on the timesheet, ahead of Oscar Piastri.
- George Russell secured fourth place and will start on the second row beside Piastri.
- Two-time champion Fernando Alonso impressed by completing the top five after strong runs in SQ1 and SQ2.
Incidents and Setbacks
The session ended dramatically when a double yellow flag was waved in SQ2 after Charles Leclerc spun his SF-25. The incident prevented his teammate, seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton, from crossing the line in time. Hamilton will begin Saturday’s sprint from 11th place and faces an FIA investigation for a yellow flag infringement.
Author’s Summary
McLaren celebrated a standout qualifying session in Brazil, with Lando Norris on top, while Verstappen and Hamilton faced rare difficulties under intense conditions.