Norris Edges Antonelli to Secure Miami Grand Prix Sprint Pole

Lando Norris produced a commanding performance to claim sprint pole position ahead of Miami Grand Prix qualifying, narrowly beating Kimi Antonelli in Friday’s session.

The McLaren driver delivered a decisive lap in the SQ3 shootout, finishing 0.222 seconds clear of the Mercedes youngster, who continues to lead the Formula One championship standings.

Norris posted a time of 1:27.869 to secure his first pole position of the season, with teammate Oscar Piastri taking third place. Charles Leclerc of Ferrari finished fourth, while Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing completed the top five.

“It was great — a perfect result for us,” Norris said. “It’s a nice way to reward the team. We’ve introduced several upgrades to the car, so it’s encouraging to feel the improvement and repay the effort everyone has put in.

“I’ve always enjoyed Miami, both on and off the circuit. It’s a strong start, but it is only the beginning of the weekend, and there is still plenty to do.”

The British driver, who is the reigning Formula One World Drivers’ Champion, enjoyed an outstanding 2025 campaign, securing seven Grand Prix victories. He also claimed his maiden Formula One win at this circuit in 2024.

Antonelli, meanwhile, continues to impress in his breakthrough season. The 19-year-old Italian has won the previous two races in China and Japan, starting from pole position on both occasions.

Attention now turns to Saturday’s sprint race, scheduled for midday, before the main Grand Prix takes place on Sunday afternoon.