Mclaren on another planet in Arabia FP3: Leclerc fifth, Hamilton only 12th

Qualifying for the 2025 Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix d’Arabia 2025 is shaping up to be an all-McLaren affair. Free Practice 3 delivered a clear verdict: Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris are on another planet from the competition. The two drivers from the Woking stable have trimmed heavy gaps to all, with the Australian printing a monstrous time of 1:27.513, leaving the first of the pursuers six tenths behind.

The fight for the second row is on behind them, with Charles Leclerc, George Russell and Max Verstappen vying for the best possible place behind the “papaya” duo. Leclerc, fourth at the end of FP3, however, pays a heavy gap: almost nine tenths from Piastri, demonstrating Ferrari’s difficulties in finding the rhythm on the Jeddah city track. Russell, third, is the only one to contain the gap to within seven tenths.

Lewer back instead Lewis Hamilton, protagonist of a mistake on his flying lap. The seven-time world champion finished only in 12th position, unable to find the right feeling with the single-seater. The Briton now aims to climb at least into the top ten during official qualifying.

Among the surprises of the session, Alex Albon’s excellent sixth time, ahead of Sainz and Gasly, should be noted, while Tsunoda and young Andrea Kimi Antonelli also managed to enter the top ten, showing encouraging signs.

Everything therefore seems pointed toward a completely McLaren front row. Barring any sensational twists and turns, pole will be a matter between Norris and Piastri. Behind them, however, a tight battle for the positions that count is set to take place.