The 2025 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix qualifying session at Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne delivered thrilling results, with Lando Norris securing pole position for McLaren. The session saw unexpected performances, close battles, and dramatic surprises as teams fought for the best grid positions ahead of race day.
Top Qualifiers
-
Lando Norris (McLaren) – 1:15.096 (Pole Position)
-
Oscar Piastri (McLaren) – 1:15.180 (+0.084s)
-
Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing) – 1:15.481 (+0.385s)
Full Qualifying Results
| Position | Driver | Team | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lando Norris | McLaren | 1:15.096 |
| 2 | Oscar Piastri | McLaren | 1:15.180 |
| 3 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull | 1:15.481 |
| 4 | George Russell | Mercedes | 1:15.546 |
| 5 | Yuki Tsunoda | Racing Bulls | 1:15.670 |
| 6 | Alex Albon | Williams | 1:15.737 |
| 7 | Charles Leclerc | Ferrari | 1:15.755 |
| 8 | Lewis Hamilton | Ferrari | 1:15.973 |
| 9 | Pierre Gasly | Alpine | 1:15.980 |
| 10 | Carlos Sainz | Williams | 1:16.062 |
| 11 | Isack Hadjar | Racing Bulls | 1:16.175 |
| 12 | Fernando Alonso | Aston Martin | 1:16.453 |
| 13 | Lance Stroll | Aston Martin | 1:16.514 |
| 14 | Jack Doohan | Alpine | 1:16.580 |
| 15 | Gabriel Bortoleto | Sauber | 1:16.642 |
| 16 | Andrea Kimi Antonelli | Mercedes | 1:16.700 |
| 17 | Nico Hulkenberg | Sauber | 1:16.755 |
| 18 | Liam Lawson | Red Bull | 1:16.820 |
| 19 | Esteban Ocon | Haas | 1:16.890 |
| 20 | Oliver Bearman | Haas | No Time |
Key Takeaways from Qualifying
-
McLaren's Front-Row Lockout: Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri delivered an outstanding performance, securing a 1-2 start for McLaren.
-
Max Verstappen (P3) Struggles: The reigning champion was over three-tenths behind Norris, hinting at potential challenges for Red Bull.
-
Yuki Tsunoda (P5) Impresses: A stunning lap placed him ahead of both Ferraris, marking a standout performance for Racing Bulls.
-
Ferrari's Mixed Fortunes: Leclerc (P7) and Hamilton (P8) failed to challenge for the front row, raising concerns about their one-lap pace.
Session Incidents & Weather Conditions
-
Oliver Bearman (Haas): Unable to set a time due to technical issues in Q1.
-
Liam Lawson (Red Bull): Struggled with power unit problems, resulting in a disappointing P18.
-
Track Conditions: Dry and warm throughout the session, but rain is forecasted for race day, which could shake up race strategies.
Lawson OUT in Q1 ❌
That's going to be it for Liam Lawson in qualifying after making a mistake on his fast lap! 😮#F1 #AusGP pic.twitter.com/SecUxfbHme
— Formula 1 (@F1) March 15, 2025
Lawson OUT in Q1 ❌
That's going to be it for Liam Lawson in qualifying after making a mistake on his fast lap! 😮#F1 #AusGP pic.twitter.com/SecUxfbHme
Race Expectations
With McLaren locking out the front row and unpredictable wet weather looming, the 2025 Australian Grand Prix is shaping up to be a must-watch event. Can Norris convert pole into victory, or will Verstappen fight back on race day?