Hamilton takes first proper pole for Ferrari, Antonelli starts fourth
RACE•Lewis Hamilton took his first regular Grand Prix pole for Ferrari, setting a record-extending 105th career pole in 1:16.514. Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli will start fourth and needs only ninth place to become Formula One's youngest champion.
1. Hamilton claims pole
Hamilton secured pole for the Mexico City Grand Prix, his first at a regular Grand Prix since Hungary in July 2023. Mercedes' George Russell qualified second, 0.009 seconds behind, and Ferrari's Charles Leclerc was third, 0.119 seconds off the pace. Hamilton's pole was his 105th career pole and made him the oldest pole sitter since 1982.
2. Antonelli near title
Antonelli qualified fifth but will start fourth after Max Verstappen received a grid drop. The 20-year-old needs only ninth place on Sunday to become Formula One's youngest champion and Italy's first champion since 1953. Antonelli said he felt tense and made too many mistakes in qualifying.
