Canadian Grand Prix Qualifying Report: Russell Takes Pole, Verstappen in Pursuit
Montreal, Canada — George Russell clinched pole position for the Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix with a stunning lap of 1:10.899, narrowly edging Max Verstappen, who was forced to settle for second amid ongoing controversy following a collision with Russell during the recent Spanish Grand Prix.
Russell’s performance marks his first pole since winning the Las Vegas Grand Prix in 2024. He demonstrated consistent pace throughout the weekend, ultimately overtaking Verstappen, who had led the timesheets prior to Q3. Championship leader Oscar Piastri will start third for McLaren, maintaining his competitive form.
Lando Norris, Piastri’s teammate and title contender, faced challenges and will start seventh alongside Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc. Andrea Kimi Antonelli will start fourth in the second Mercedes, while Lewis Hamilton rounds out the top five. Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso impressed with a strong sixth place. Isack Hadjar and Alex Albon completed the top ten.
Yuki Tsunoda will begin from the back of the grid following a 10-place penalty for a red flag violation during FP3; he was 11th fastest in Q2. Franco Colapinto is set to start 11th, benefitting from Tsunoda’s penalty, as he improved throughout qualifying.
Notably, red flags disrupted the session during Q1 due to a significant bodywork failure on Albon’s Williams. This incident impacted the elimination of several drivers, including Pierre Gasly and home favorite Lance Stroll, who struggled after returning from injury.
Qualifying Results – Canadian Grand Prix
- George Russell (Mercedes) – 1:10.899
- Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing)
- Oscar Piastri (McLaren)
- Andrea Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes)
- Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
- Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin)
- Lando Norris (McLaren)
- Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
- Isack Hadjar (Williams)
- Alex Albon (Williams)
As the race approaches, the competitive landscape intensifies, with Russell looking to convert pole into victory amid a fiercely contested championship battle.
