The reigning world champion, Max Verstappen, put on one of the all-time greatest-ever lap times in the Suzuka circuit during the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix. Nobody gave Red Bull a chance to win the pole position. But it was Max Verstappen who made the difference in lap time. The McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri were the fastest in practice and qualifying.
The final qualifying was outstanding from Lando Norris as he beat Sebastian Vettel’s 2019 lap time at the Suzuka circuit. But the biggest surprise was Max Verstappen pushing his Red Bull car into the pole position. He has now set the best lap time at the Suzuka circuit with 1.26.983s. Even his rivals, McLaren, were impressed with the drive and appreciated the Dutch driver's efforts.
Also Read: F1 2025 Japanese Grand Prix Qualifying Results: Max Verstappen clinches blistering record Pole position in Suzuka
Watch: Fernando Alonso hails Verstappen as the best
Alonso praises Verstappen’s pole lap as a "magical moment for everyone"
Veteran F1 driver Fernando Alonso was in the press meeting during Max Verstappen’s pole position, and he was very impressed with the drive. After watching his pole position, Alonso smiled in joy, praising the 27-year-old driver. The Aston Martin driver said, “Only he can do it. I think there is no other driver at the moment who can drive a car and put it so high and higher than the car deserves. I think it was a magical moment for everyone here.”
Verstappen carries struggling Red Bull team as RB21 issues continue
Red Bull’s new RB21 is having many issues that are a continuation of last year's RB20. The balance of the car was not good, as its rear end was loose. His teammate Yuki Tsunoda was P15, and compared with Max, he is way below. This is also the last race for Red Bull with Honda engines, so if Verstappen wins, it will be a great tribute to the brand for their contribution to his illustrious career.
Max Verstappen has been carrying the Red Bull team on his shoulders for the last couple of years. The second Formula 1 driver has been the biggest issue for Red Bull, and recently, Yuki Tsunoda was chosen as the newest driver for the team.
Also Read: Ranking the Top 5 F1 Drivers with the Most Wins at the Japanese GP: Who’s the King of Suzuka?
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