Lando Norris Claims Pole Amidst Dramatic Wet Qualifying in Las Vegas

Lando Norris secured pole position for the Las Vegas Grand Prix amid challenging wet conditions, with McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri starting fifth. Max Verstappen joined Norris on the front row. The pole was significant, with Norris leading the championship and edging closer to potentially securing the title.

Lando Norris, the leader of the Formula One championship, secured an impressive pole position for the Las Vegas Grand Prix in a wet qualifying session on Friday. McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri, his closest title rival, qualified fifth. Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who sits third in the standings, accompanied Norris on the front row but was slightly slower.

Currently leading by 24 points over Piastri, Norris aims for a victory in Saturday's race to cement his closer step towards the championship title. With his seventh pole of the season, equaling Verstappen's count, Norris has shown dominance, especially with all recent wins originating from pole position.

The session presented its own stresses, as drivers navigated slippery streets. McLaren expects a strong performance with Piastri eager to advance in position. Other notable qualifiers included Carlos Sainz for Williams and George Russell for Mercedes, despite technical issues. Lewis Hamilton struggled, qualifying last for Ferrari after a mishap during the session.

(With inputs from agencies.)