Formula 1
Norris takes sprint pole in Qatar – Verstappen sixth
Advantage McLaren in the fight for the team title. First and third place on the starting grid for the final sprint of the Formula 1 season. Only then do the two Ferraris and the world champion arrive.
Lando Norris took pole position for the final sprint race this year in Formula 1. The Brit, who had already been beaten by Max Verstappen in the drivers’ championship, set the fastest lap in his McLaren at the Lusail International Circuit in the decisive section of the knockout round. “A great qualifying,” said Norris: “We came here to get pole and we did that.”
George Russell came second in the Mercedes five days after his Grand Prix victory in Las Vegas, just 63 thousandths of a second behind. Oscar Piastri came third in the second McLaren. Only then did the two Ferraris line up with Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc.
Between the Scuderia and McLaren, the title in the constructors’ championship is still at stake in the two remaining Grand Prix. Before the sprint race over around 100 kilometers this Saturday at 3:00 p.m. CET, McLaren leads Ferrari by 24 points. Defending champion Red Bull only has a mathematical chance.
Pérez next failure
After being crowned again, Max Verstappen came sixth in Las Vegas. The teammate of the four-time champion from the Netherlands, Sergio Pérez, once again experienced a personal disaster. The 34-year-old Mexican was eliminated in the first period in 16th place. Despite all his own assurances, his stay at Red Bull after this season is more than questionable.
The only German regular driver, Nico Hülkenberg, made it into the top ten in the Haas in ninth place. After the sprint race, there will also be qualification for the Qatar Grand Prix on Saturday (7 p.m. CET/Sky).
dpa
