Norris on Pole as VSC Decides Mexico GP

Lando Norris took pole for the Mexico City Grand Prix after a dominant qualifying, while championship rival Oscar Piastri struggled and was set to start around seventh. The high‑altitude Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez continued to shape strategy with its long straight and low grip, encouraging slipstreaming battles. A late virtual safety car caused by Carlos Sainz’s stoppage neutralized the field, reshuffling positions and allowing Charles Leclerc to hold second despite a charging Max Verstappen. Lewis Hamilton was hit with a 10‑second penalty that cost him a higher finish, and team figures including Red Bull adviser Helmut Marko and McLaren management noted Piastri’s recent loss of form amid McLaren’s already clinched Constructors’ title.