The Mercedes driver held off Max Verstappen, who claimed that Lando Norris impeded his final qualifying lap
Here’s Giles Richards’ qualifying report. While everyone had eyes on Piastri, Norris and Verstappen, it was George Russell who outshone them all to take pole and set up what should be a thrilling race tomorrow. You can join us for live coverage; until then, thanks for joining me.
Here’s Lando Norris, who’s been feeling unwell this weekend: “I’m better today, it has hit me hard. No excuses for today. We’ve been struggling with the front tyres, too much understeer. You have to make compromises. We understand it, improving it is the bigger thing we have to work on.
“You just feel too slow, like you’re not doing a good enough job. Winning tomorrow? I think you’re asking a lot. This track is all about qualifying, not many chances [to overtake]. A lot of work to do.” He isn’t asked about Verstappen’s claim that Norris impeded his final qualifying lap.
Red Bull’s Laurent Mekies: “It’s a very strong qualifying performance, and we feel we would be a lot closer to George without that last corner,” he says when asked about the Norris incident. Very diplomatic. “We’re not on pole, but we’re able to fight with McLaren and Mercedes and able to fight in the race on Sunday.”
