In the rush to get out into the pit lane to get going for Qualifying, Hulkenberg nudged his way out and Stroll ran over his front wing and broke it. There were some quick laps, nothing to mention. Norris won the head to head with his team mate to take the fastest lap. It looked like it might be between Hamilton and Gasly to see who would be out in 16th. Out went three rookies and both Aston Martins in their worst outing for a long long time (possibly ever): Bortoleto, Colapinto, Antonelli, Alonso, Stroll.
Between sessions, Hamilton had his lap time deleted and this gave a reprieve to Bortoleto and he was 16 and out after all. He said it was unacceptable to be out in the first session for both qualifying sessions at this track and took the blame, saying he would apologise to the team.
The second session proceeded much as the first only Verstappen was confident with his time and saved some tyres, not going out for a second fast lap. It looked like Ocon might knock Albon out but, even with a purple first sector, couldn't manage it. Out went Ocon, Bearman, Gasly, Hulkenberg and Sainz. Williams' performance is improving under Vowle's leadership but they can't seem to get both cars in on it at the same time.
In the final shoot out, LeClerc did manage a faster lap but it was between Verstappen, Norris and Piastri, who traded quickest laps. Russell put in a couple of purple (best time set so far) sectors but overall it wasn't quick enough. Albon was the last person across the line and even beat Russell to get 5th. Verstappen was lacking grip in his Red Bull and it was enough to cost him pole and even third place as LeClerc did have more in himself. Out of the two McLarens, it was Norris who put in the fastest lap to take pole. It was needed as Piastri had it yesterday. The top ten finishing order was Norris, Piastri, LeClerc, Verstappen, Albon, Russell, Tsunoda, Hadjar, Lawson and Bortoleto.
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