Oscar Piastri takes pole position at the Dutch Grand Prix 2025 as McLaren dominates qualifying

August 30, 2025, F1 (Photo: McLarenF1)

The Dutch Grand Prix, which in 2025 marks its final edition after not being renewed for upcoming seasons, delivered a qualifying session that ended with the man now favorite for the championship: Oscar Piastri. The Australian McLaren driver flew around the Zandvoort circuit and claimed pole position in a session that kept the tension alive until the very last moment.

The surprise was even greater as Piastri managed to outpace his own teammate Lando Norris, who had looked set to secure first place after dominating free practice. McLaren confirmed that after the summer break they remain the team to beat, locking out the front row with their two young stars and proving they are enjoying one of the strongest moments in their history.

Right behind them will start Max Verstappen, who in front of his home crowd could not steal pole from the papayas. The Dutchman, a four-time world champion, will face the pressure of climbing from third place on a circuit where all eyes will be fixed on him.

One of the standout stories is the fourth place for Hadjar, who continues to show he is the best rookie of 2025. Mercedes and Ferrari, meanwhile, tried to mix into the fight but could only manage mid-Top 10 results. George Russell and Lewis Hamilton secured competitive positions, while Charles Leclerc will start from sixth, knowing his race pace will be crucial if he wants to dream of a podium finish.

Qualifying in Zandvoort sent a clear message: McLaren is on the right path to snatch the title from Red Bull, with Piastri emerging as a new star unfazed by pressure or the size of the stage. With Verstappen forced to respond at home and Norris eager to beat his teammate, the race promises to deliver high drama.

On Sunday, all attention will be on whether Oscar Piastri can turn this pole into the first major victory of his career, and if McLaren can truly consolidate their resurgence against Red Bull’s dominance.