Leclerc Grabs Azerbaijan Pole, Verstappen Struggles Continue
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc has once again proven his dominance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, securing pole position for the fourth consecutive year. The Monegasque driver, fresh off his victory at Monza, will be joined on the front row by McLaren’s rising star, Oscar Piastri.
However, reigning world champion Max Verstappen’s recent struggles continued as the Red Bull driver could only manage sixth place on the grid. Verstappen, who has not won a race in six attempts, will be eager to break his losing streak in Baku.
Lando Norris, Verstappen’s closest rival in the championship standings, suffered a major setback by being eliminated in the first qualifying session. The McLaren driver will start from a lowly 17th position, making his task of closing the 62-point gap to Verstappen an even more daunting one.
Leclerc’s Ferrari teammate, Carlos Sainz, will start alongside Sergio Perez in the second Red Bull on the second row. George Russell, in the Mercedes, will occupy the third row alongside Verstappen.
Norris acknowledged the challenges he faces from the back of the grid, especially on the narrow streets of Baku, where overtaking is notoriously difficult. “I’m not expecting a lot from 17th, but we will put in a good plan tonight and do our best,” said the Briton.
With Leclerc in pole position and Verstappen starting further down the grid, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix promises to be an intriguing battle for supremacy. The narrow and unpredictable nature of the Baku City Circuit could lead to unexpected twists and turns, making it a race that is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
