Max Verstappen has secured pole position in the sprint qualifying session of the Singapore Grand Prix in Formula 1, thanks to an impressive final lap. The Red Bull Racing driver has ensured the first position alongside George Russell, who will start from second position.
It’s the first time Verstappen has achieved pole in a qualifying session at the Marina Bay circuit, although he will later be investigated for an alleged yellow flag infringement.
Round 1: Verstappen sets the fastest time, Lindblad does not advance
The qualifying session began with an incident when Sergio Pérez collided with the barriers at Turn 5, prompting a yellow flag. The Mexican driver lost his front wing, necessitating a red flag to clear the circuit.
The last six minutes were frantic, with drivers seeking competitive times. Verstappen recorded a time of 1m33.477s, placing himself ahead of Charles Leclerc and Russell. The rest of the drivers were at least six tenths behind the leader’s time.
Round 2: Russell survives despite a lockup
Verstappen set a faster time in the second segment, with a 1m32.724s. However, Leclerc, Hamilton, and Norris quickly surpassed his mark. Antonelli and Russell were at a notable distance, and Russell managed to secure a spot in the final round in the last moments.
Colapinto was eliminated by just 0.094s, alongside Hulkenberg, who failed to improve during the final phase.
Round 3: Verstappen stands out
In the decisive phase of qualifying, drivers switched to soft tires. Norris was the first to take action, setting a time of 1m31.587s. Leclerc achieved a 1m31.568s, but it was Verstappen who shone with a 1m31.156s, marking the first time he has won a qualifying at the circuit, although it will not count as pole in the official records.
Russell managed to remain in the front row, while Antonelli, the championship leader, finished seventh, with a time of 0.693s behind Verstappen.
Results of the sprint qualifying of the Singapore GP
The final classifications showed Verstappen in first place, followed by Russell and Leclerc, with Piastri and Norris completing the top five. Antonelli was unable to meet expectations, finishing seventh with a performance that will leave room for improvements during the race.
Reported by FormulaRapidaAI
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