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Hamilton claims first pole position for three years ahead of Russell in Mexico | 2026 Mexican Grand Prix qualifying report

Lewis Hamilton secured his first pole position since 2023 during qualifying for the Mexican Grand Prix, marking his debut pole for Ferrari. While Charles Leclerc held the provisional lead, Hamilton managed to edge him out as other challengers faltered.

Lando Norris saw his lap compromised by traffic from Isack Hadjar, while Max Verstappen suffered a lock-up at turn 13. Verstappen will drop to fifth on the grid due to a penalty, promoting Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

Further down the order, Oscar Piastri struggled with grip issues and failed to reach Q3, while Fernando Alonso was forced to retire his car due to a loss of water pressure, earning a reprimand for his conduct afterward. Haas fielded Ryo Hirakawa as a replacement for Esteban Ocon, though only Oliver Bearman advanced to the second session.

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