F1 2025 Miami GP: Final Starting Grid Set as Verstappen Claims Pole Amid P…read more
F1 2025 Miami GP: Final Starting Grid Set as Verstappen Claims Pole Amid P…read more
The starting lineup for the 2025 Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix has been finalized, with Max Verstappen clinching pole position after a dramatic day of racing at the Miami International Autodrome. The sixth race of the season saw action-packed sprint and qualifying sessions, with penalties and standout performances shaping a thrilling grid.
Verstappen on Top After Eventful Saturday
Despite receiving a 10-second penalty in the sprint race for an unsafe release that nearly collided with Mercedes newcomer Kimi Antonelli, Max Verstappen rebounded impressively to take pole in qualifying. His lap of 1:26.204 edged out McLaren’s Lando Norris by just 0.065 seconds, proving the reigning champion remains a formidable force.
Norris, fresh from leading a McLaren 1-2 in the sprint alongside Oscar Piastri, maintained strong pace to secure second on the grid. Piastri will start fourth behind Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli, who delivered a stunning performance to claim third — his best qualifying result to date.
Midfield Momentum and Rising Stars
George Russell rounds out the top five, narrowly trailing teammate Antonelli. Williams continued their resurgence with Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon starting sixth and seventh respectively, highlighting the team’s growing consistency. Charles Leclerc could only manage eighth after struggling in the final sector, while Haas’ Esteban Ocon and Red Bull’s Yuki Tsunoda complete the top 10.
Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton endured a disappointing session, failing to make it out of Q2 and settling for 12th on the grid after battling traffic and track evolution. Promising rookie Isack Hadjar just missed the top 10 and will start 11th.
Backmarkers and Eliminations
Further back, Gabriel Bortoleto, Jack Doohan, and Liam Lawson will occupy 13th through 15th. Notable Q1 eliminations included seasoned drivers Nico Hulkenberg, Fernando Alonso, Pierre Gasly, and Lance Stroll, along with rookie Ollie Bearman.
No Additional Grid Penalties
The FIA confirmed that all post-qualifying penalties have been applied, with Verstappen’s sprint race sanction not affecting his starting position. No further grid drops were issued.
With the grid tightly packed and several drivers out of position, Sunday’s 57-lap showdown under the Miami sun is poised to deliver another thrilling chapter in the 2025 F1 season.
