George Russell Poles In Azerbaijan GP As Kimi Antonelli Retires

 

George Russell claimed pole position in a fiercely contested race in Baku  at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix as Kimi Antonelli failed to make Q3 for the first time this season, 

Antonelli had a chaotic start, colliding with the wall in Turn 1 while racing for his first lap in Q1. The Italian driver pitted and did not participate in Q2. His teammate, Russell, dominated FP1 and FP2, led the qualifier, and claimed pole for the first time since the Spanish Grand Prix. He set the fastest time of 1:42.526.

Charles Leclerc led the pace for Ferrari, setting the second-fastest time behind Russell. Lewis Hamilton stood no chance, and Max Verstappen finished behind his teammate, Isack Hadjar. The latter narrowly missed the front row, which would have matched his F1 personal best of P3. Oscar Piastri edged him out on his last lap.

Lando Norris raced out of the track on his final lap, locking up his four wheels. Russell extended his pole position this year to five and his F1 career total to 12. 

Azerbaijan Grand Prix Qualifier Top 10

1. George Russell (Mercedes)

2. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)

3. Oscar Piastri  (McLaren)

4. Isack Hadjar (Red Bull)

5. Lando Norris (McLaren)

6. Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari)

7. Pierre Gasly (Alpine)

8. Max Verstappen (Red Bull)

9. Carlos Sainz (Williams)

10. Frances  Colapinto (Alpine)