Max Verstappen is set to start from pole position for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, marking the 42nd time he has achieved this feat in his Formula 1 career. The Dutch driver, representing Red Bull Racing, showcased exceptional skill during qualifying, securing the top spot ahead of Oscar Piastri from McLaren, who will start in second place. Meanwhile, Lando Norris, the current championship leader, faced a setback, qualifying in 10th after crashing during Q3.
The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, taking place at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, is scheduled to begin at 19:00 local time on April 20, 2025. This picturesque street circuit, known for its fast-paced layout, spans 6.174 kilometers and consists of 50 laps. The lap record, set by Lewis Hamilton in 2021, stands at 1:30.734, and there are three designated DRS zones to facilitate overtaking during the race.
As the anticipation builds for the race, fans and teams alike are eager to see if Verstappen can capitalize on his pole position and reclaim momentum after a disappointing season opener in Bahrain. The Jeddah track, which has gained a reputation for its thrilling night races, promises to deliver excitement and drama.
During the lead-up to the race weekend, Verstappen expressed his feelings about the ongoing speculation surrounding his future in Formula 1. "Everyone is concerned about my future except for me," he stated during a press conference. His focus remains on the present, as he aims to improve his performance following the challenges faced with the RB21 car earlier in the season.
The weekend's schedule kicked off with three practice sessions, allowing drivers to familiarize themselves with the circuit's unique challenges. The first session on Friday saw Verstappen finishing in ninth place, but he quickly bounced back, securing third in the second practice. His confidence grew as he noted, "It’s not too bad, honestly. I’m satisfied with the lap, but there’s some understeer at low speed halfway through the corner."
In the final practice session, Verstappen’s pace was promising, although it was evident that the McLarens were significantly faster. However, when qualifying arrived, everything clicked for the Red Bull driver. Following Norris's crash in Q3, Verstappen took full advantage of the situation, delivering a stunning lap to clinch pole position.
The starting grid for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix is as follows:
- 1. Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
- 2. Oscar Piastri (McLaren)
- 3. George Russell (Mercedes)
- 4. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
- 5. Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes)
- 6. Carlos Sainz (Williams)
- 7. Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari)
- 8. Yuki Tsunoda (Red Bull)
- 9. Pierre Gasly (Alpine)
- 10. Lando Norris (McLaren)
- 11. Alex Albon (Williams)
- 12. Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls)
- 13. Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin)
- 14. Isack Hadjar (Race Bulls)
- 15. Oliver Bearman (Haas)
- 16. Lance Stroll (Aston Martin)
- 17. Jack Doohan (Alpine)
- 18. Nico Hülkenberg (Sauber)
- 19. Esteban Ocon (Haas)
- 20. Gabriel Bortoleto (Sauber)
As the race approaches, fans are eager to see if Verstappen can maintain his lead and fend off the challenges from Piastri and the rest of the field. With the championship still in its early stages, every point counts, and the stakes couldn't be higher.
In addition to the main event, the weekend also features F1 Academy Race 2 at 14:00 and Formula 2 Race 2 at 15:15 on April 20, 2025, providing a full day of racing excitement for fans. The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix promises to be a thrilling spectacle under the lights, and all eyes will be on Verstappen to see if he can deliver a victory and regain his momentum in the championship race.
