Sergio Perez on pole position for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Max Verstappen 15th

The Jeddah circuit certainly appeals to Sergio Perez. Like last year, the Red Bull driver took pole position in the Saudi Arabian Formula 1 Grand Prix, instead of the only two in his career. He was ahead of Charles Leclerc (Ferrari), who will start 12th because of a penalty of ten places on the starting grid for a change of electronic box, and Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin) followed by George Russell (Mercedes). The latter two will therefore start behind the Mexican on the starting grid.

The Red Bull team had a two-sided qualifying session as the big surprise of the day came from Max Verstappen. After largely dominating the three free practice sessions of the weekend, the reigning double world champion did not go further than Q2. The Dutchman was forced to end his qualifying due to a problem with his gearbox.

Aston Martin confirms, Alpine in Q3

He will only start in 15th position on the starting grid. Which will not fail to add a little spice to this Grand Prix of Saudi Arabia, which he won last season. “It’s really boring. We had a good weekend, every session was going wellhe reacted to the exit of his tub. It will be a little more complicated to play the leading roles but we have a good pace, so for sure we will gain places.”

The Ferraris showed a good pace in qualifying since in addition to Charles Leclerc (2nd time), Carlos Sainz Jr finished 5th. The Monegasque, penalized ten places, will allow his rivals to glean a position on the starting grid on Sunday. The Aston Martins confirmed their very good start to the year. On the podium at the Bahrain Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso will start on the front row thanks to his third fastest time of the day. His teammate Lance Stroll set the 6th fastest time.

The Alpines were also reassured. Pierre Gasly had not passed Q1 during the first Grand Prix of the season, before shining in the race, he ranked 10th on Saturday. He is preceded by his compatriot and teammate Esteban Ocon, 7th. The Mercedes are not especially at the party. Especially Lewis Hamilton, 8th, while George Russell finished 4th.