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Antonelli Dethrones Russell for Japanese GP Pole
29 Mar
Summary
- Antonelli secured pole position for the Japanese Grand Prix.
- Russell expressed dissatisfaction with his Mercedes' handling.
- Max Verstappen was eliminated early, starting 11th.
Kimi Antonelli has asserted his championship ambitions by securing pole position for Sunday's Japanese Grand Prix, significantly outpacing his Mercedes teammate George Russell. This pole follows Antonelli's maiden victory in China two weeks prior.
Russell, who currently leads Antonelli by four points in the championship, expressed frustration with his car's performance throughout the qualifying session. Despite the challenges, Russell secured the second grid spot, acknowledging Antonelli's superior pace.
Adding to the day's surprises, Red Bull's Max Verstappen endured a torrid qualifying, being eliminated in Q2 and set to start from 11th. Verstappen cited significant issues with his car, deeming it 'completely undriveable'. Other notable grid positions include Oscar Piastri in third and Charles Leclerc in fourth.
Ollie Bearman also faced an early exit from qualifying, set to start 18th, while Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton will line up fifth and sixth respectively.
