F1: Sainz Jr. wins pole for USGP

Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz Jr. turned a lap of 1m34.356s to win pole position for the USGP at the packed to the gills Circuit of the Americas.

With and estimated 145,000 fans looking on, Charles Leclerc was 2nd fastest in the #16 Ferrari, just 0.065s behind his teammate, but he will start 12th after his grid penalty for a changed engine.

“It was fun, a lot of fun,” said Sainz Jr.  “It was tricky with the winds, so gusty that it is a bit of an adventure with these cars. I managed to put a lap together with no mistakes. Pole position has been a long time coming. I think tomorrow Red Bull are favorites, they have a strong race pace, but we’ll do everything we can to try and stay ahead and win.”

“It’s difficult with the wind, the car changes lap to lap,” said Leclerc. “Carlos did a better job today and deserves to start from pole. I’ll start further back, but will try my best. No crazy risks, but if there is an opportunity, I’ll be there to take it.”

Max Verstappen was a close third for Red Bull, just 0.092s behind, but will move up to the front row on Sunday because of Leclerc’s Grid Penalty.

“It’s a very tough day. We tried to give it everything, but unfortunately, we missed out. But there’s a race tomorrow, and we’ll try and make [Dietrich Mateschitz] proud.”

Sergio Perez was 4th in the 2nd Red Bull Honda, 0.289s back, but he has a 5-place grid penalty.

Lewis Hamilton was 5th quick for Mercedes, 0.591s back, but will start 3rd after grid penalties for the two drivers in front of him.

George Russell was close behind his teammate in 6th but will move up to 4th at the start, making it an all-Mercedes 2nd row.

Lance Stroll wound up a brilliant best of the rest in the end, and could well find himself as high as fifth on the grid tomorrow. Lando Norris qualified eighth ahead of Fernando Alonso and Valtteri Bottas, with the Spaniard another carrying a grid drop into tomorrow.

More to follow…….

Qualifying Results