Lando Norris takes maiden F1 pole in frantic Sochi qualifying
Lando Norris has snatched his maiden F1 pole position at the Russian Grand Prix in a dramatic qualifying session at Sochi.
Lando Norris with his first ever Pirelli Pole Position Award at Sochi. (McLaren)
After McLaren's first one-two finish in over a decade last time out at the Italian Grand Prix, Norris set the fastest time on a drying circuit ahead of Carlos Sainz and George Russell.
"Obviously I’m very happy – probably the happiest I’ve been in F1!" said Norris.
"My first pole position in Formula 1 and in some pretty tricky conditions."
Drivers struggled for pace early in the three-part session, but quickly found their form as a dry line emerged.
Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton was on provisional pole in the early stages of Q3, before George Russell swapped for slick tyres.
The field dived into the pits to follow his lead, and the frenzied moment caught out Hamilton, who hit the pit entry wall and damaged his front wing.
"It was very tough out there, a lot of risks taken, a lot of times I thought I could've ended up in the wall – but it all paid-off and was worth it," said Norris.
Daniel Ricciardo congratulates Lando Norris after qualifying. (McLaren)
Norris set the fastest time of 1:41.993, earning his maiden pole position and the team's latest since the 2012 Brazilian Grand Prix.
"Thanks to the whole team for giving me a great car today," he said.
"It's an amazing feeling to get pole and something I’ve always dreamed of since I was a kid."
"So now I can finally tick that off, and hopefully tomorrow we can just go for another strong result."
Lewis Hamilton will start in fourth, with Max Verstappen at the rear of the grid after an engine penalty.
Daniel Ricciardo qualified fifth.
