Miami, Florida — The stage is set for an unpredictable Miami Grand Prix, with rain potentially complicating the drivers’ strategies. Max Verstappen of Red Bull has secured pole position, while Mercedes newcomer Kimi Antonelli starts from third after an impressive performance in Saturday’s Sprint event.
Joining Verstappen on the front row is Lando Norris, the Sprint winner from McLaren. He will be closely pursued by his teammate Oscar Piastri, who currently leads the championship and will start in fourth. Meanwhile, George Russell of Mercedes lines up behind Antonelli in fifth place, adding to the competitive mix at the front.
The qualifying rounds showcased strong performances from Williams, with Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon finishing sixth and seventh, respectively. This result positions them well for the race, but ahead of them, Charles Leclerc represents Ferrari, looking to bounce back from his earlier disappointment when he crashed while heading to the grid for the Sprint.
In a notable performance for his team, Esteban Ocon will start from ninth, marking a significant opportunity for Haas at their home race. Yuki Tsunoda completes the top ten, driving the second Red Bull car. Notably absent from the higher echelons of the grid, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton will begin in twelfth place in his Ferrari, leaving him with ground to cover if he hopes to make a significant impact on the race.
Pierre Gasly will start from the pit lane, the only driver in that position. His Alpine car underwent adjustments during the Parc Ferme period after originally qualifying in 18th place, raising questions about what sort of performance he might deliver later in the race.
As the drivers prepare for what promises to be a thrilling and possibly rain-affected race, all eyes will be on Verstappen and Norris, both of whom are eager to claim victory. With variable conditions potentially in play, the opening moments of the race may prove decisive, particularly as the competitors navigate the challenging Miami track.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how strategies will unfold, especially with several skilled drivers positioned near the front of the pack. The atmosphere is charged as the Miami Grand Prix approaches, with anticipation for what could unfold on the track.