Verstappen on Pole, McLaren 2-3 Ahead of Lights Out in Suzuka

Max Verstappen stormed to pole position for the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka with a blistering lap of 1:26.983, marking his fourth consecutive pole at the iconic circuit. The Red Bull driver edged out McLaren’s Lando Norris by just 0.012 seconds in a tightly contested session, with Oscar Piastri securing third to secure the two positions directly behind the Dutchman for McLaren.

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc qualified fourth, while Mercedes’ George Russell and rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli slotted into fifth and sixth, respectively.

Carlos Sainz initially set the seventh-fastest time in Q3, but will start further back due to a grid penalty related to power unit component changes. The Spaniard’s demotion opens the door for others in the midfield to gain crucial starting positions, especially with rain forecasted for Sunday’s race.

The session was briefly interrupted by minor delays due to sparks from the cars igniting dry grass off-track—an issue that has persisted throughout the weekend.

In a notable qualifying moment for Red Bull’s second seat drama, Yuki Tsunoda, recently promoted to the senior team, could only manage 14th, just behind former Red Bull driver Liam Lawson in 13th for Racing Bulls.

With variable conditions expected for race day, Suzuka promises a strategic and potentially chaotic showdown—with Verstappen defending from two very fast McLarens hot on his heels.