RIYADH – Lewis Hamilton became the first driver to clinch the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix pole position on Saturday (Dec. 4), the Arab News reported.
The remarkable accomplishment was made after beating out teammate Valtteri Bottas and the world championship title rival Max Verstappen.
The two Mercedes drivers secured a one-two grid position which will give them the advantage over the Red Bull driver at the Jeddah Corniche circuit, where overtaking may be difficult.
Ferrari’s Charles LeClerc was half a second back in fourth and Mexican Red Bull driver Sergio Perez rounded out the rest of the top five.
The first-ever Formula 1 Free Practice sessions took place on Friday on the brand-new Jeddah Corniche Circuit.
After months of planning and many hours of hard work, Formula 1 cars were finally able to test the newest, fastest, and longest street track in F1, with an average speed of 252 kilometers per hour and a maximum speed of 322 kilometers per hour in the last turn, and it also contains seven stands that have been built, giving fans a mesmerizing view of the race.
Meanwhile, the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2021 official race is to commence on Sunday (Dec. 5) in Jeddah.
Sunday will also mark the final race of the Porsche Sprint Challenge Middle East, followed by preparations for the main event, which will include a display of the F1 drivers.
Organized by the Ministry of Sports in collaboration with the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation, the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix comes in a 15-year partnership with F1. (Xinhua) – bny
