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Russell Takes Shanghai Sprint Pole as Mercedes Extends Early 2026 Edge

Antonelli's P2 remains under stewards review for an alleged impediment, leaving the front row order unsettled.

Overview

  • George Russell set a 1:31.520 to top all three qualifying segments, finishing 0.289s ahead of Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli.
  • Lando Norris qualified third and Lewis Hamilton fourth, with McLaren and Ferrari trailing Mercedes by more than six tenths on one-lap pace.
  • Max Verstappen reported "horrendous" drivability on Red Bull’s new power unit and will start eighth, with team-mate Isack Hadjar in 10th.
  • Sergio Pérez did not take part after Cadillac identified a fuel system problem, as sprint-weekend limits magnified reliability setbacks.
  • Ferrari shelved its rotating 'Macarena' rear wing for qualifying after trialling it in practice, where Hamilton also spun and flat-spotted a key tyre set.