Carlos Sainz has secured pole position for the Mexican Grand Prix. The Ferrari driver was the fastest in an exciting qualifying session on Saturday. Max Verstappen will join the Spaniard on the front row on Sunday, followed by Lando Norris in the McLaren. What else stands out in the starting grid?
Sainz’s pole could be a precursor to success in Mexico: the last time he led the starting grid was in Singapore (2023), a race he subsequently won. Verstappen, Norris, and Sainz’s teammate Charles Leclerc (P4) will be looking to prevent a repeat of that outcome. Mercedes drivers George Russel and Lewis Hamilton occupy the third row of the grid. A podium finish seems to be the highest achievable goal for the pair.
The top 10 is completed by Kevin Magnussen (Haas), Pierre Gasly (Alpine), Alexander Albon (Williams), and Nico Hülkenberg (Haas) in that order. Behind them, VCARB drivers Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson are eyeing points, as are others including veteran Fernando Alonso (his 400th Grand Prix). And then the question arises: what does the catch-up race hold for Oscar Piastri (McLaren, P17) and Sergio Pérez (Red Bull, P18)?
The Mexican Grand Prix starts on Sunday evening at 20:00 UTC. It will be 14:00 local time in Mexico City.
The Full Starting Grid:
Please note that the image of the full starting grid has been omitted due to the instructions provided.
