Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen took pole position in qualifying for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix after standings leader Lando Norris crashed on Saturday. Red Bull's Verstappen beat McLaren driver Oscar Piastri's time by .

Max Verstappen has secured a stunning pole position under the lights for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. The Dutchman headed Oscar Piastri and George Russell at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. Lando Norris crashed out of the final qualifying session in sector one.

Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri were fast all week, but Max Verstappen stunned them again to take pole position

Red Bull’s early-season struggles—marked by a disappointing showing in Bahrain and rising tensions behind the scenes—have reignited interest in Verstappen’s exit clause. According to Sky Sports, Verstappen’s long-term deal includes performance-based clauses that could allow Verstappen to leave if key figures depart or if the team fails to deliver.

Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen says he feels “very relaxed” amid speculation about his future with Red Bull while acknowledging there is frustration within the team.