Max Verstappen pulled off a stunning late lap to take pole position for the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix, denying McLaren's Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri in a nail-biting finish at Suzuka Circuit on Saturday.
Teammate Sergio Perez joined Verstappen on the front row, underlining Red Bull's formidable presence at the sharp end of the grid. Despite a valiant effort from Perez, Verstappen's mastery prevailed, with the Mexican's time falling just short of his teammate's benchmark.
Charles Leclerc could only finish sixth in the second Ferrari, meaning Mercedes clinched a record sixth successive constructors' world championship with their double podium finish.
However, Hamilton's eighth win of the season and third in a row left the Silver Arrows red-faced and sparked fresh debate over team orders.
Way to acknowledge the presence of a fellow sporting icon!
The championship leader surprised his rivals with a scintillating drive in the final session!
