Verstappen Back on Top with First Pole of 2025 as Hamilton Struggles at Suzuka
Max Verstappen showed he’s still the man to beat by grabbing his first pole position of the 2025 Formula 1 season at the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka on Saturday.
The four-time world champion clocked a stunning 1:26.983 in the final moments of qualifying to secure top spot. It was not just a fast lap – it was a new track record.
“It was unexpected, especially with how our season started,” Verstappen said. “But that’s what makes this one so special. I love this track – it’s crazy fast.”
He’ll start Sunday’s race from the front row alongside McLaren’s Lando Norris, who praised the Red Bull driver for a brilliant lap.
“Credit to Max – when someone does a lap like that, you have to say well done,” Norris said.
Norris’ teammate, Oscar Piastri, will start third. The Chinese Grand Prix winner admitted he gave it everything but expects a tough fight from Verstappen.
This pole is Verstappen’s 41st in Formula 1 and could mark a turning point in a season that hasn’t started smoothly for Red Bull. The Dutchman has won only two of his last 16 races and is hungry to get back on top.
Hamilton’s Ferrari Struggles Continue
While Verstappen celebrated, Lewis Hamilton endured another tough day in his debut season with Ferrari.
The seven-time world champion could only qualify in eighth place, behind both Mercedes drivers and rookie Isack Hadjar. Hamilton, who turns 40 this year, looked frustrated once again with his car’s performance, especially through the tighter sections of the track.
Ferrari’s lead driver Charles Leclerc did better, securing P4, but still missed out on a front-row start. Mercedes pair George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli will begin in P5 and P6 respectively.
Williams’ Alex Albon pulled off a surprise with P9, while young British driver Ollie Bearman placed 10th for Haas.
Rain Could Shake Things Up
Rain is expected during Sunday’s race, which could make things more exciting – or more chaotic. Verstappen is known for his skill in wet conditions, but Suzuka is always unpredictable.
With McLaren looking strong, Ferrari under pressure, and rain in the forecast, the stage is set for a thrilling race day in Japan.
