Lando Norris Snatches Pole Position in Thrilling Monaco GP Qualifying
Lando Norris delivered a spectacular performance during the qualifying session for the Monaco Grand Prix, clinching pole position with a stunning last-gasp lap. The McLaren driver outpaced home favorite Charles Leclerc and teammate Oscar Piastri in a dramatic conclusion to the day’s action.
In a session marked by tense competition, Norris posted a time of 1:09.954, just edging out Leclerc, who had briefly held the top spot. Piastri secured third place, while Lewis Hamilton, recovering from a crash in final practice, finished fourth, and reigning champion Max Verstappen rounded out the top five.
The qualifying session was characterized by varying strategies as teams adjusted their plans for the closing stages. Norris and Piastri managed to extract maximum performance from their final sets of soft tires, setting the stage for an exhilarating finish.
Isack Hadjar shone for Racing Bulls, taking sixth place, while Fernando Alonso in his Aston Martin and Esteban Ocon in his Haas also impressed, finishing seventh and eighth, respectively. Alex Albon completed the top ten, ensuring a competitive grid for the race.
Carlos Sainz faced disappointment, unable to break into the top ten due to grip issues, placing 11th, while Yuki Tsunoda continued to struggle with his Red Bull, finishing lower down the order.
The session was not without drama. Rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli crashed during Q1, bringing out the red flag and impacting several drivers’ final laps. Mercedes faced further challenges as George Russell suffered a power failure, ending up 14th.
The 2025 Monaco Grand Prix is set to take place at 15:00 local time on Sunday, promising an exciting showdown on the streets of Monte Carlo.