Max Verstappen secured pole position for the Bahrain Grand Prix, his first top‑line time since the 2025 Abu Dhabi finale.
Stunning Qualifying Performance
The Dutchman topped the time sheets, beating Lewis Hamilton by almost 0.3 seconds. That lap also marked Red Bull’s first pole under the partnership with Ford’s power unit.
Grid Adjustments
Isack Hadjar rounded the session in third place but a five‑place grid penalty drops him to eighth. Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli inherits the vacated spot.
Verstappen on the Garage
After the session, Verstappen expressed satisfaction with the team’s progress, noting that from FP1 the car had been improving steadily. He highlighted the intense heat affecting brakes and tyres and stressed the race’s demanding nature, urging the crew to stay ready for any start‑line complications.
He also indicated confidence, saying that any rivals who trade qualifying pace for race‑day strengths would need to match his readiness. The Red Bull driver concluded, “I’ve felt good and confident all weekend; we hope to deliver that again today.”
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