Verstappen secures pole for United States Grand Prix at COTA

Max Verstappen will start tomorrow’s United States Grand Prix from pole position after a commanding performance in Qualifying at the Circuit of The Americas. The Red Bull driver, already buoyed by his Sprint victory earlier in the day, delivered a 1:32.510 in Q3 — a lap good enough to secure P1 by nearly three tenths over Lando Norris.

Verstappen Untouchable in Austin

Despite a tense moment when he was urged to hurry to the line for his final run, Verstappen’s first flying lap in Q3 proved unbeatable. The Dutchman’s pace was evident throughout the session, with sector times that consistently matched or bettered his rivals. His pole sets him up perfectly to continue closing the gap in the championship fight.

Norris Leads McLaren Charge — But Piastri Struggles

Lando Norris once again lines up alongside Verstappen on the front row, but McLaren’s day was mixed. Oscar Piastri, the championship leader, could only manage sixth, behind Hamilton, Russell, and Leclerc. Given his 22-point advantage, starting behind both title rivals is far from ideal — especially at a track where overtaking can be tricky.

Ferrari and Mercedes in the Mix

Charles Leclerc and George Russell will share the second row, with Lewis Hamilton just behind in fifth. Ferrari showed improved one-lap pace compared to Sprint Qualifying, while Mercedes looked competitive, particularly in the hands of Russell. Kimi Antonelli impressed with seventh, continuing his strong rookie form.

Bearman Shines for Haas

Oliver Bearman produced one of the standout performances of the day, qualifying eighth and outpacing several established names. Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso complete the top ten, with both looking to make progress in the race.

Key Moments in Qualifying

Q1 Drama

The opening segment was halted by red flags after Isack Hadjar spun into the barriers. He was unhurt but eliminated, along with Bortoleto, Ocon, Stroll, and Albon. Track limits played a major role, with several drivers losing lap times — notably Stroll and Albon.

Q2 Eliminations

Nico Hulkenberg, Liam Lawson, Yuki Tsunoda, Pierre Gasly, and Franco Colapinto failed to make the cut. Tsunoda’s struggles continued after his Sprint heroics, while Hulkenberg missed out by a narrow margin.

Q3 Decider

Fresh tyres were the order of the day for the final runs, but Verstappen’s early lap proved decisive. Leclerc’s late spin at the final corner ended his hopes of challenging for pole, while Hamilton’s lock-up into Turn 1 cost him time.

Championship Ramifications

With Piastri starting sixth and Verstappen on pole, the points swing could be significant. A win for Verstappen would cut the gap to just a handful of points, while Norris has a chance to insert himself further into the title conversation. The battle at the front is set to be intense, with five races and two Sprints remaining after Austin.

United States Grand Prix Grid — Top 10

Max Verstappen — Red Bull Racing
Lando Norris — McLaren
Charles Leclerc — Ferrari
George Russell — Mercedes
Lewis Hamilton — Ferrari
Oscar Piastri — McLaren
Kimi Antonelli — Mercedes
Oliver Bearman — Haas
Carlos Sainz — Williams
Fernando Alonso — Aston Martin

Final Thoughts

Verstappen’s pole underlines his momentum, but with Norris alongside and a hungry pack behind, Sunday’s race promises fireworks. Piastri faces a crucial recovery drive to protect his championship lead, while Ferrari and Mercedes will be eyeing podiums. At COTA, Turn 1 often delivers chaos — and with the title fight tightening, every position will matter.