Verstappen Claims Qatar GP Pole Ahead of Russell by 0.055 Seconds

Nov 30, 2024, 07:10 PM

Max Verstappen, the newly crowned four-time world champion, secured pole position for the Qatar Grand Prix, marking his first pole since Austria in June and his ninth pole of the year. The Red Bull driver delivered a phenomenal lap time of 1:20.520, beating Mercedes' George Russell by just 0.055 seconds. Lando Norris of McLaren qualified third, 0.252 seconds behind Verstappen. Despite a disappointing P8 finish in the sprint race, Verstappen showcased a remarkable turnaround in qualifying. His teammate, Sergio "Checo" Pérez, who returned to Q3, will start from ninth position. Verstappen's pole is his 41st career pole position. However, he may face an investigation for allegedly impeding Russell during Q3.