Breaking: F1 2025 Spanish Grand Prix starting grid with penalties ap… read more
Breaking: F1 2025 Spanish Grand Prix starting grid with penalties ap… read more
McLaren Locks Out Front Row as Oscar Piastri Takes Pole for the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix
McLaren stunned the paddock on Saturday as Oscar Piastri secured his first-ever Formula 1 pole position, leading a front-row lockout for the team at the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix. The 23-year-old Australian delivered a near-perfect lap in Q3, edging out teammate Lando Norris by just 0.057 seconds in a dramatic qualifying session at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.
Piastri, who has steadily improved since joining the grid, showed remarkable composure under pressure. His performance marks a major milestone in his F1 career and a huge statement of intent from McLaren, who have steadily closed the gap to Red Bull and Ferrari in recent months.
“It feels surreal,” Piastri said after the session. “We’ve been working hard all year and to finally put it all together here is incredible. The car felt amazing, and the team has done a phenomenal job.”
Lando Norris, who has been McLaren’s lead driver in recent seasons, congratulated his teammate while expressing confidence in the team’s chances on race day. “It’s great for the team,” Norris said. “We’ve locked out the front row, and that gives us a real shot at a strong result tomorrow.”
The result comes as a shock to many, with championship leader Max Verstappen only managing to qualify fourth, behind Mercedes’ George Russell. Red Bull appeared to struggle with balance and grip throughout the session, raising questions about their setup for the Spanish circuit.
McLaren’s dominant showing in qualifying is their first front-row lockout since 2012 and signals a potential power shift as the 2025 season heats up. With both Piastri and Norris starting at the front, the team will be aiming for a one-two finish and a major haul of points on Sunday.
