There was a little chance of rain for Qualifying; there were some grey clouds nearby. A few drivers dropped their wheels into the gravel, bringing it onto the track. So it was slippy for one reason or another. At least gravel can be swept off the track. It was Piastri who sent the most debris onto the track but was able to put together good enough lap times to finish the first session in first. Alonso was in second, then Hadjar, Norris in fourth. It wasn't looking good for his championship hopes. Out went Tsunoda (last of the Bulls team), Gasly, Ocon, Hulkenberg and Albon. The Williams put in three runs and Sainz was able to get up to 8th; not a strong track for the team.
In the second session, there was a tiny drizzle over Turn 6 and possibly Turn 1 too. There was a mini panic by the teams but much more excitement in the commentary cabin. This time, Norris was fastest and impressively so but Piastri was hot on his heels. Stroll was third and the Newey effect was clearly at play with the Aston Martins. Out went Antonelli, Bearman, Hamilton, Sainz and Colapinto. Both Racing Bulls and a Sauber were through.
In the final push, pole could have been anybody's. The McLarens no longer had the lead; the Aston Martins were gunning for them. LeClerc came out of nowhere to put in the quickest time and then had to wait and see if anyone would beat him. No one could manage it. They finished LeClerc, Piastri, Norris, Russell (whose car worked it's tyres better on the cooling track), Alonso, Stroll, Bortoleto, Verstappen, Lawson and Hadjar (who didn't set a time). The Ferrari driver couldn't believe it but his team mate out in 13th would be even more bewildered.
All in all, it set up a great race with several drivers looking punchy.
