PIASTRI HITS QATAR POLE

Oscar Piastri kept his title hopes very much alive after snatching a crucial pole position for the Qatar Grand Prix.

The Australian managed to edge McLaren teammate Lando Norris in a qualifying session packed with tension, tiny margins and late-lap drama.

Piastri, who’s been steadily rebuilding momentum in recent rounds, delivered when it mattered most, hooking up a near-perfect final run that stopped the clock at 1:19.387.

That lap not only secured pole by just over a tenth, but also sent a clear message that he’s not done fighting for the championship.

Norris, who’d looked sharp all weekend, was left frustrated after running wide at Turn 2 and abandoning his final push lap. He admitted afterwards that he “should’ve had pole,” a mistake that could cost him dearly at such a decisive point in the season.

Max Verstappen had to settle for third, unable to match McLaren’s pace as Red Bull continued to struggle with grip and balance at the demanding Lusail circuit.

With Piastri closing the points gap and McLaren locking out the front row, the Grand Prix now carries even higher stakes. If he converts pole into victory and if Norris can’t recover quickly, the title fight may be heading for a dramatic finale all the way to Abu Dhabi.

Image credit: Motorsport F1