In a dazzling display of speed and precision, Lando Norris snagged the pole position for the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, setting a blistering new track record. The streets of Monte Carlo saw fierce competition, with Norris outperforming rivals like Charles Leclerc, who settled for the second spot after leading temporarily, and Oscar Piastri, who rounds out the top three.
The qualifying session at Monaco is always a spectacle, with its narrow track and unforgiving corners testing the mettle of every driver. This year, the drama unfolded as Charles Leclerc’s provisional pole was snatched away by Lando Norris’s late flying lap. Norris’s performance not only secured him the prime starting position but also set a new benchmark on this historic circuit.
Oscar Piastri, driving for McLaren, also managed to hold the pole for a short while with a commendable effort, securing a starting position in the top three. Meanwhile, Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton initially claimed fourth but was demoted to seventh after a post-session penalty for impeding. This reshuffling saw Max Verstappen, who was fifth fastest, move up the grid.
The penalty for Hamilton resulted in Isack Hadjar becoming the leading Racing Bulls driver, starting ahead of seasoned contender Fernando Alonso. The midfield battle, as always, promises excitement with Esteban Ocon, Liam Lawson, and Alex Albon occupying the remaining spots in the top ten.
Just outside the top ten, Williams’ Carlos Sainz starts in 11th, narrowly missing the final segment. George Russell faced a frustrating session as a mechanical issue left him without a time in the second qualifying segment, resulting in a 14th place start. Kimi Antonelli also had a disappointing day, unable to advance past Q1 after damaging his car, yet he managed to qualify 15th.
At the back, penalties played a significant role. Oliver Bearman was pushed to the last spot on the grid due to a penalty for impeding. Lance Stroll’s minor infraction during practice also affected his position, leaving him 19th after qualifying 20th.
With the grid set for the Monaco Grand Prix, anticipation is high for what promises to be an exhilarating race. The challenging circuit and a diverse lineup ensure that Sunday’s race will be one filled with strategy, split-second decisions, and potential surprises.
