P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Our pick of the standout performers and the biggest flops from the final qualifying session of F1 2025
Max Verstappen emerged as the winner of the final F1 2025 qualifying session, showcasing his exceptional skills behind the wheel and proving his worth as a championship contender, despite facing challenges with his Red Bull car throughout the season. His pole position in the decider further solidified his claim to be the most deserving champion of the year, as highlighted by Matt Beer.
On the other hand, Oscar Piastri ended up as a loser in the qualifying session, starting from the third position behind Verstappen and Norris, significantly reducing his already slim chances for the title. Piastri’s need for a miraculous turnaround intensified, with his hopes pinned on the misfortunes of his competitors, as noted by Josh Suttill.
Lando Norris secured the second spot in qualifying, positioning himself well for the title race. Despite some unease, Norris’s consistent performance and strategic positioning on the grid provide him with a strong opportunity to challenge for the championship, with Valentin Khorounzhiy emphasizing the importance of a relatively positive qualifying outcome for Norris.
In contrast, Lewis Hamilton faced disappointment as he qualified in the 16th position, marking his fourth consecutive struggle to advance from the initial segment. Hamilton’s frustrations were evident, compounded by the underperformance of his Ferrari compared to his teammate, Charles Leclerc. The widening gap in performance raises concerns for Hamilton’s prospects in the championship battle, requiring a significant effort to bridge the deficit and regain competitiveness.
