Belgian Grand Prix Qualifying: Surprises and Disappointments

A Shocking Turn of Events

In a turn of events, Carlos Sainz of Ferrari secured the pole position for the 2022 Belgian Grand Prix, despite Max Verstappen of Red Bull dominating qualifying.

The Qualifiers

Q1

Qualifying Session 1 (Q1) commenced after a brief delay due to repairs to barriers damaged in a support race. Despite the delay, the drivers quickly found their pace, with Max Verstappen setting the fastest time.

Q2

In Q2, the competition intensified, with several drivers pushing their cars to the limit. Charles Leclerc of Ferrari emerged as the provisional pole sitter, followed by Verstappen and Sainz.

Q3

The final qualifying session (Q3) was a thrilling battle for pole position. Sainz initially held the lead, but Leclerc fought back and claimed the top spot in the dying seconds. Verstappen, despite setting the fastest overall time, was penalized for impeding Sainz and will start from P10.

Surprise Contenders

McLaren, who brought circuit-specific upgrades for the Belgian Grand Prix, proved to be a formidable force in qualifying. Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo both progressed to Q3 and finished in P5 and P6 respectively.

The Race to Come

With Sainz on pole and Verstappen starting from the back, the Belgian Grand Prix promises to be an exciting race. Other drivers to watch include Leclerc, Fernando Alonso of Alpine, and Esteban Ocon of Alpine. The race will be broadcast live for those with cable or satellite subscriptions and can be streamed online for others.