Daijiworld Media Network - Miami

Miami, May 2: Formula One star Lando Norris delivered a standout lap to claim pole position for the Miami Grand Prix sprint race at the Miami Grand Prix, narrowly beating Mercedes’ rising talent and championship leader Kimi Antonelli.

Driving at the Miami International Autodrome, Norris clocked a fastest time of 1:27.869, edging Antonelli by 0.222 seconds. The performance denied McLaren a potential front-row lockout but confirmed a major step forward following recent upgrades.

Norris credited improvements made by McLaren Formula 1 Team, saying the upgraded car had restored grip and rewarded the hard work of the team. He also highlighted his familiarity with the Miami circuit, where he competed twice in the previous season.

Behind him, McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri qualified third, while Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc took fourth place.

Four-time world champion Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing qualified fifth, while Mercedes’ George Russell finished sixth, admitting surprise at the strong pace shown by McLaren and Ferrari.

Further down the grid, Lewis Hamilton and Franco Colapinto completed the top eight. Isack Hadjar and Pierre Gasly rounded out the top ten.

Russell acknowledged difficulties with Miami’s hot conditions, describing the track as one that does not suit his driving style, while also praising the significant performance gains made by rival teams.

Meanwhile, Aston Martin endured a difficult session, with both Aston Martin F1 Team drivers, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, finishing at the back of the field.

The sprint race, set at the Hard Rock Stadium circuit, will be followed by the main Grand Prix later in the weekend, with teams now preparing for what is expected to be a closely contested round.