Max Verstappen secured pole position for the F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix after a commanding qualifying performance, ending Q3 with a 1:22.207 as the only driver to improve on the final runs. The McLaren duo of Norris and Piastri followed closely behind.
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Q1
Verstappen opened with 1:23.325 first among the title contenders, but Piastri seemed faster, Norris slower. However after the first laps, Russell led with 1:23.247. Bearman stood second that time.
For the second shot Piastri completed 1:22.605 over half a second to Norris. Verstappen came behind Piastri.
Out: Hamilton, Albon, Hulkenberg, Gasly, Colapinto
Q2
Verstappen started the stage – 1:22.912 on used softs, but Russell was the fastest after all and ahead of the Norris, Piastri duo.
Verstappen stayed on used and jumped to second after another flying lap. Surprisingly Bortoleto 5th, Leclerc 6th and Bearman outed.
Out: Bearman, Sainz, Lawson, Antonelli, Stroll
Q3
Verstappen ran a 1:22.295 lap on new soft tires followed by Piastri and Norris on used ones 0.3s and 0.5s gap to the Dutchman.
2 minutes were to go when the drivers rolled out again for the final shots. Everybody ran on new tires, but only Verstappen could improve – 1:22.207.
Behind him the McLarens in order by Norris and Piastri.
The full results of the qualifying according to FIA.com:
