Max Verstappen Takes Pole Amid Six Red Flags and Multiple Crashes in Azerbaijan Grand Prix Qualifying

The 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix qualifying session was marked by chaotic conditions, including rain and a record six red flags due to multiple crashes on the narrow Baku street circuit. Max Verstappen secured pole position with a strong lap, while championship leader Oscar Piastri crashed in the final minutes, resulting in a disappointing ninth place start, his worst of the season. Piastri, despite the crash, remained optimistic about his chances for an ambitious race win, citing the competitiveness of his McLaren car. His teammate Lando Norris qualified seventh, but McLaren's hopes of clinching the constructors' title early were dimmed by the qualifying setbacks. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc also crashed during the session and will start behind Piastri. The qualifying drama underscored the challenging nature of the Baku circuit, combining tight corners with a long straight, which demands a difficult setup balance from the drivers and teams.