Verstappen claims his second pole of the season at the Saudi Arabian GP

Jakarta - Red Bull racer Max Verstappen maintained his dominance by claiming his second pole in the 2024 Formula 1 season, after being the fastest in the qualifying session for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Saturday WIB.

Verstappen recorded the fastest lap time which was more impressive compared to the record in the three free practice sessions held at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, with 1 minute 27.472 seconds.

He is ahead of Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc, who continues to be one of his toughest competitors in the opening two races of the season, with only 0.319 seconds behind the defending champion.

This is the second time Leclerc has finished second in the battle for pole position with Verstappen, after previously finishing in the same position at the Bahrain GP some time ago.

Polesitter and champion of the 2023 Saudi Arabian GP, ​​Sergio Perez, also proved that he was still worthy of defending his title even though he finished in third place with a margin of 0.335 seconds from his teammate.

In fourth position, there is veteran racer Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin) who appeared smart and patient to enter the list of the five fastest drivers in qualifying for the Saudi Arabian GP this time. He has a time difference of 0.374 seconds from the race leader.

Behind him was young racer Oscar Piastri (McLaren) who managed to snatch fifth place from his teammate, Lando Norris. Piastri has a margin of 0.617 seconds from Verstappen, while Norris had to settle for sixth place with a difference of just 0.043 seconds from his fellow racer in the papaya uniform.

Completing the top 10 list, there are George Russell (Mercedes), Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes), Yuki Tsunoda (RB), and Lance Stroll (Aston Martin).

On the other hand, young Ferrari driver Oliver Bearman was almost able to break into the list of 10 fastest drivers in his debut race in F1, after only narrowly separating from Stroll.

After this, the racers will prepare to face the main race of the Saudi Arabian GP which will be held on Sunday (10/3) at 00.00 WIB.