Verstappen Smashes Suzuka Lap Record to Seize Stunning Pole in Japanese GP Showdown

Max Verstappen will spearhead the Formula 1 grid for the Japanese Grand Prix after an electrifying qualifying performance at Suzuka. The reigning world champion delivered a record-breaking lap of 1:26.983, narrowly edging out McLaren duo Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri by just 0.012 seconds. Verstappen’s blistering time not only secured pole position, but also shattered Sebastian Vettel’s previous Suzuka benchmark of 1:27.064 set in 2019. It marks the Dutch driver’s fourth consecutive pole at this iconic circuit, reinforcing his dominance in Japan.

Behind the Red Bull driver, McLaren showed strong pace, locking out the second and third spots with Norris and Piastri respectively. Meanwhile, Verstappen’s new teammate, Yuki Tsunoda, will start 14th after originally qualifying 15th, gaining a place due to Carlos Sainz’s three-place grid penalty. The Ferrari driver was penalized for impeding Lewis Hamilton in Q2, dropping from 12th to 15th and promoting Fernando Alonso, Liam Lawson, and Tsunoda up one place each.

Hamilton, starting from eighth, finds himself with his lowest starting position at Suzuka since 2012 when he began ninth for McLaren. With the grid still provisional pending FIA confirmation, all eyes are now on what promises to be a thrilling race at one of F1’s most challenging circuits.

FULL STARTING GRID FOR 2025 F1 JAPANESE GRAND PRIX