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Mercedes Ace Russell Stuns Verstappen, Clinches Singapore Pole
4 Oct
Summary
- George Russell takes pole position in Singapore
- Max Verstappen qualifies second, Oscar Piastri third
- Lewis Hamilton avoids grid penalty after red flag incident
On October 4th, 2025, the qualifying session for the Singapore Grand Prix took place, and the results have shaken up the Formula 1 landscape. Mercedes driver George Russell, who had crashed in Friday's practice, bounced back in style to claim pole position, beating out championship leader Max Verstappen by 0.182 seconds.
Despite Verstappen's recent momentum, having won the last two races, it was Russell who emerged victorious in the qualifying session, showcasing the Mercedes team's resurgence. Oscar Piastri, the current championship leader, qualified third, 0.366 seconds off Russell's pace, while his McLaren teammate Lando Norris rounded out the top five.
The result is a significant boost for Russell, who has struggled in Singapore in the past, with a best finish of fourth. However, the tight and twisty Marina Bay Street Circuit is known for its difficulty in overtaking, meaning pole position could prove crucial come race day.
Elsewhere, Lewis Hamilton managed to avoid a potential grid penalty after an incident in practice, where he was investigated for going too fast under a red flag. The stewards ultimately decided that Hamilton's driving was not unsafe or against the rules, though they noted that "a greater reduction of speed would have been desirable."
The pressure is also mounting on Red Bull's Yuki Tsunoda, who qualified a disappointing 15th, as the team looks to solidify its position in the constructors' championship.
