The 2024 Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix qualifying session delivered an electrifying spectacle under the bright lights of the Nevada desert. Mercedes’ George Russell emerged victorious, securing pole position with a blistering lap time of 1:32.312. This marks Russell’s third pole of the season and sets the stage for a thrilling race on the iconic Las Vegas Strip Circuit.
Mercedes’ Dominance in Challenging Conditions
Russell’s commanding performance highlights Mercedes’ ability to adapt to the unique challenges posed by the Las Vegas circuit. Low temperatures and a slippery track surface made finding optimal grip a daunting task, but Russell kept his composure to edge out Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz, who qualified second with a time of 1:32.410.
Gasly Shines for Alpine
Pierre Gasly delivered a standout performance for Alpine, clinching third place with a time of 1:32.664. Gasly’s result is a testament to Alpine’s progress this season and positions him as a dark horse for the main race. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc narrowly missed out on the top three, finishing fourth with a time of 1:32.783.
Verstappen and Red Bull Struggle
Defending champion Max Verstappen faced unexpected difficulties during qualifying, managing only fifth place with a lap of 1:32.797. His Red Bull teammate, Sergio Pérez, had an even tougher session, failing to advance past Q1 and qualifying in a disappointing 16th place. Verstappen’s result underscores Red Bull’s struggles to optimize their car for the unique demands of the Las Vegas circuit.
McLaren Continues Strong Form
McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri demonstrated consistent form, qualifying sixth and eighth respectively. Norris clocked a time of 1:33.008, while rookie Piastri showcased his potential with a solid lap of 1:33.033. Their performance reaffirms McLaren’s resurgence in the latter half of the season.
Dramatic Moments in Q2
Williams’ Franco Colapinto experienced a terrifying crash during Q2, colliding with the barriers and causing significant damage to his car. While the driver escaped unharmed, the incident brought out a red flag and added tension to an already intense session. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton managed to scrape into Q3 but could only secure 10th place with a time of 1:33.106, leaving Mercedes with mixed results heading into the race.
Full Qualification Results
| Position | Driver | Team | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | George Russell | Mercedes | 1:32.312 |
| 2 | Carlos Sainz | Ferrari | 1:32.410 |
| 3 | Pierre Gasly | Alpine | 1:32.664 |
| 4 | Charles Leclerc | Ferrari | 1:32.783 |
| 5 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull Racing | 1:32.797 |
| 6 | Lando Norris | McLaren | 1:33.008 |
| 7 | Yuki Tsunoda | Visa Cash App RB | 1:33.029 |
| 8 | Oscar Piastri | McLaren | 1:33.033 |
| 9 | Nico Hülkenberg | Haas | 1:33.062 |
| 10 | Lewis Hamilton | Mercedes | 1:33.106 |
| 11 | Esteban Ocon | Alpine | 1:33.345 |
| 12 | Zhou Guanyu | Alfa Romeo | 1:33.587 |
| 13 | Kevin Magnussen | Haas | 1:33.602 |
| 14 | Fernando Alonso | Aston Martin | 1:33.769 |
| 15 | Valtteri Bottas | Alfa Romeo | 1:33.921 |
| 16 | Sergio Pérez | Red Bull Racing | 1:34.212 |
| 17 | Alexander Albon | Williams | 1:34.445 |
| 18 | Lance Stroll | Aston Martin | 1:34.675 |
| 19 | Logan Sargeant | Williams | 1:34.889 |
| 20 | Franco Colapinto | Williams | No Time |
Anticipation Builds for the Race
The Las Vegas Grand Prix promises to be a thrilling showdown, with Russell looking to convert his pole position into victory. However, with Sainz and Gasly close behind, and Verstappen aiming to fight back from fifth, the race could see plenty of drama and unexpected turns.
The race will take place on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 22:00 local time (06:00 GMT on Sunday). Fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the action as the drivers prepare to battle it out under the glittering lights of Las Vegas.