Antonelli edges Verstappen in provisional Miami GP starting grid

The Italian secured pole position during a weekend in which Mercedes had struggled to match its usual level of competitiveness, as shown by teammate George Russell managing only fifth place in qualifying.

Antonelli finished almost two tenths clear of an equally impressive Max Verstappen, whose front-row start could prove crucial considering where Red Bull appeared to stand at the beginning of the weekend. However, the upgrades introduced on the RB22 seem to have delivered immediate results, allowing the Dutchman to return to the fight at the front.

Starting from third will be Charles Leclerc, who also produced an excellent qualifying performance aboard a heavily revised SF-26, while Lando Norris completed the second row. As mentioned, Russell will line up at the front of the third row after a disappointing session, with Lewis Hamilton alongside him. It was also a difficult qualifying for Oscar Piastri, who will start seventh, ahead of Franco Colapinto in eighth and the other Red Bull of Isack Hadjar in ninth. Pierre Gasly rounded out the top 10, continuing to deliver consistently for Alpine.

Below is the full provisional grid for the Miami Grand Prix.

Formula 1 is evaluating whether the start time for the Miami Grand Prix should be adjusted due to concerns over worsening weather conditions, GPblog understands. Discussions are expected to take place following qualifying as officials continue to monitor the forecast alongside local authorities.

Current weather projections indicate thunderstorms and heavy rain could hit the area around 1 p.m. local time, potentially putting the planned race start at risk. One option under consideration is bringing the race forward earlier in the day to avoid the most severe conditions.