Lawson Secures Third Place in Azerbaijan Qualifying as Verstappen Takes Pole

Published

2 months ago

20 September, 2025

In a thrilling qualifying session at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix on April 30, 2023, Max Verstappen clinched pole position for Red Bull Racing. The Dutch driver will start at the front of the grid, while Carlos Sainz from Williams Racing secured the second spot. Notably, Liam Lawson, driving for Racing Bulls, achieved his best Formula 1 qualifying result, finishing in third place.

The marathon qualifying session took place on the streets of Baku, known for its challenging circuit and high-speed straights. Verstappen’s impressive lap time of 1:40.233 set the benchmark, showcasing his dominance and the performance of the Red Bull car. Sainz’s strong showing indicates a competitive edge for Williams, which has been striving to improve its standing in the championship.

Lawson’s achievement is particularly noteworthy as it highlights the rising talent within the F1 ranks. The New Zealand driver, stepping in for the injured Alex Albon, demonstrated skill and composure throughout the session. His third-place finish not only marks a personal best but also places him in an advantageous position for the race, scheduled for later today.

The qualifying session was marked by strategic tire choices and tactical decisions, with teams navigating the unpredictable conditions often present in Baku. Drivers needed to balance the risks of pushing for faster times while avoiding potential incidents on the narrow streets.

As the race approaches, all eyes will be on these three drivers, especially Lawson, who aims to convert his qualifying success into valuable points for his team. The race promises to be an exciting contest, with the potential for unexpected twists given the unique characteristics of the Baku circuit.

Fans around the world will be eager to see if Verstappen can maintain his lead and if Lawson can capitalize on his strong qualifying performance. The Azerbaijan Grand Prix is known for its dramatic moments, and this year’s event is set to continue that tradition.

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