Max Verstappen delivered an exceptional lap at Suzuka, seizing pole position for the Japanese Grand Prix from McLaren`s Lando Norris in a thrilling qualifying session.
The reigning champion outpaced Norris by a mere 0.012 seconds, showcasing a stunning final effort that defied expectations and pushed the limits of his car.
Verstappen expressed his surprise, noting the team`s continuous improvements throughout each session to achieve optimal car balance. He described his pole-winning lap as “flat out,” emphasizing the rewarding nature of pushing to the absolute limit at the Suzuka circuit.
Suzuka is renowned as a true driver`s circuit in Formula 1, and Verstappen`s performance further solidified his reputation as a top driver. He matched Norris` sector times in the first two sectors before gaining the crucial advantage in the final sector.
Norris will start second, followed by his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri. Norris admitted to extracting the maximum from his car and acknowledged Verstappen`s impressive lap, recognizing the strong competition for pole position.
Red Bull`s car has been noted for its challenging handling at the limit, highlighted by Verstappen`s teammate, Yuki Tsunoda, qualifying in 15th place.
Charles Leclerc of Ferrari will start fourth, ahead of Mercedes` George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli in fifth and sixth respectively.
Isack Hadjar, a Racing Bulls rookie, achieved an impressive seventh place on the grid, starting ahead of Lewis Hamilton in eighth. Carlos Sainz received a grid penalty, dropping him three places for impeding Hamilton.
Alex Albon and Oliver Bearman of Williams and Haas completed the top ten.
Tsunoda, in his first race weekend with Red Bull, struggled in Q2 and was eliminated before Q3. Liam Lawson, Tsunoda`s replacement at Racing Bulls, outqualified him, though both drivers were positioned lower on the grid than desired.
A red flag temporarily halted Q2 due to a grass fire near the 130R corner, believed to be caused by sparks from cars. Despite attempts to water the area, the fire broke out, leading to a brief suspension of the session. Rain is forecasted for Sunday’s race.
Nico Hulkenberg narrowly missed Q2, starting 16th, with Esteban Ocon in 18th. Lance Stroll will start last after an error during his run.
Rupert Caldwell 
Tristan Blackwood