Leclerc still on pole for the Russian GP

Charles Leclerc took pole again for the Russian GP. Lewis Hamilton got in between the two Ferraris.

Published on 28/09/2019 à 15:20

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Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) won his 4th consecutive pole, his 6th of the season, by winning qualifying for the Russian GP. The Monegasque will set off in front Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) who finished 4 tenths of the reference by ahead of Sebastian Vettel for 23 thousandths. The Mercedes will start on medium tires unlike their opponents who will be on soft compounds.

Max Verstappen (Red Bull) signed the 4th fastest time, but the Dutchman will have to move back 5 places on the grid following to changes of elements on the Power Unit.

Valtteri Bottas (Mercedes) will thus complete the second row in front Carlos Sainz Jr. (McLaren), Nico Hulkenberg (Renault) and Lando Norris (McLaren). Romain Grosjean (Haas) and Daniel Ricciardo (Renault) complete the Top 10.

Pierre Gasly (Toro Rosso) was the first eliminated from Q2, failing just behind the Renaults of Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hülkenberg. The Frenchman who will have to move back 5 places on the grid preceded Sergio Pérez (Racing Point), Antonio Giovinazzi (Alfa Romeo), Kevin Magnussen (Haas) and Lance stroll (RacingPoint).

“I was happy with my lap knowing we would have a choice of tires if I didn't make it to Q3. Starting from 16th position, we will have to take risks”, warned the French pilot.

Kimi Räikkönen (Alfa Romeo) failed at the gates of Q2 with less than a tenth behind his Italian teammate.

“I made a mistake going wide on a corner and I couldn't get through”, recognized the 2007 champion.

The Williams of George Russell and Robert Kubica preceded Red Bull byAlexander albon left the track in Q1. The Thai had set the 18th time before going off the track and will have to start from the back of the grid after his 5 place penalty on the grid.

“I arrived too quickly and lost the rear. It's a complicated turn and we had the wind at our backs. I was hoping to avoid contact with the wall. I remain optimistic because this track is conducive to overtaking”, said the Red Bull driver.