Sun Oct 05 08:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Russell Stuns Verstappen to Claim Singapore GP Pole in Thrilling Qualifying
**Singapore -** George Russell delivered a stunning performance in qualifying for the 2025 Singapore Grand Prix, securing pole position with a blistering lap that left reigning champion Max Verstappen in second place and visibly frustrated. The Mercedes driver clocked a time of 1:29.158, narrowly edging out Verstappen, who complained of encountering traffic on his final flying lap.
Russell’s pole position, his second of the season, came after a dominant showing throughout the qualifying sessions. He carried his Q2-topping pace into Q3, pushing his Mercedes to the limit, even brushing the walls of the Marina Bay Street Circuit.
“It’s amazing to be on pole position,” Russell said after the session. “Yesterday was a very challenging day, but it’s good to come back and get a good result today.”
Verstappen, usually dominant in qualifying, was visibly unhappy with the result, blaming traffic for hindering his final attempt. Oscar Piastri rounded out the top three for McLaren, continuing his strong form this season.
Mercedes showed impressive pace, with Kimi Antonelli, also securing fourth place, proving the team’s resurgence. Ferrari struggled to match the frontrunners, with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc finishing sixth and seventh respectively.
Several other drivers impressed during qualifying, including Isack Hadjar for Racing Bulls and Ollie Bearman for Haas, who both secured top-ten starting positions.
The race promises to be an exciting one, with Russell leading the pack and Verstappen eager to reclaim his position at the front. The 2025 Singapore Grand Prix will begin at 8:00 PM local time on Sunday.
First Piper 