Verstappen takes Miami pole, edging Norris in final run

Max Verstappen secured pole position for the Miami Grand Prix with a brilliant final qualifying lap, denying pre-race favorites McLaren in a session marked by changing track conditions and razor-thin margins.

Q1: Track evolution

The opening qualifying segment saw drivers scrambling for position on a rapidly evolving track after morning rain washed away much of the rubber.

Verstappen topped the timesheet and was the only driver confident enough to stay in the garage during the final flying laps.

Despite early pressure, Hamilton managed to secure his place in Q2, while both Aston Martins struggled with Alonso in 17th despite his car being repaired following his sprint race crash.

Hulkenberg, Gasly, Stroll, and Bearman were also eliminated.

Q2:

McLaren's dominance became evident as Piastri led the second session by two tenths over teammate Norris.

Russell initially found himself in the drop zone, complaining of no confidence in his Mercedes, but recovered well on his final run.

Hamilton's struggles continued with the Ferrari driver going backward on his final attempt, qualifying a disappointing 12th.

Rookies impressed with Hadjar missing the cut by just 0.020s and Bortoleto taking 13th for Sauber, while Lawson suffered battery problems in his Racing Bull.

Q3:

The final shootout delivered high drama as Verstappen initially set the pace with a lap just thousandths ahead of both McLarens.

The championship battle intensified when Verstappen produced a magical 1m26.204s on his final attempt.

Norris looked set to challenge but lost crucial time bouncing over the inside kerb at the final corner, finishing just 0.065s behind.

Rookie sensation Antonelli secured an impressive third for Mercedes ahead of Piastri, with Russell, Sainz, Albon, Leclerc, Ocon and Tsunoda completing the top ten.