Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton faced a devastating new low in his illustrious Formula 1 career during qualifying for the 2025 Las Vegas Grand Prix. In a shocking turn of events, the seven-time world champion qualified in a career-worst 20th and last position on the grid.
Treacherous Conditions Cause Chaos
The qualifying session on the Las Vegas Strip Circuit was thrown into disarray by persistent and heavy rainfall. The already challenging street track was transformed into a slick, low-grip surface with severely compromised visibility, creating a nightmare scenario for the entire grid.
Hamilton was unequivocal about the severity of the situation, reporting over team radio that he was facing "probably the worst conditions I have ever experienced in Formula 1." The British driver pinpointed his inability to generate sufficient temperature in his tyres as the primary reason for his lack of pace on the drenched asphalt.
A Ferrari First and Other Casualties
This result marks a significant and unwanted milestone for the Ferrari team. It is the first time a Ferrari car has qualified dead last since the 2009 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, heaping more pressure on the Scuderia.
Hamilton was not the only high-profile driver to be caught out. The difficult conditions also led to the early elimination of Red Bull's Yuki Tsunoda, who qualified 19th, and Mercedes' young hopeful Kimi Antonelli, who could only manage 17th place.
Norris Shines From the Front
While Hamilton faltered, McLaren's Lando Norris mastered the treacherous track. The British driver put in a brilliant performance to clinch pole position, setting the fastest time in Q3 even as the circuit began a slow and tricky drying process.
He will be joined on the front row by reigning world champion Max Verstappen, who secured second place. Carlos Sainz delivered a strong result for Williams, rounding out the top three in third position.
Meanwhile, Oscar Piastri endured a tense session. The McLaren driver narrowly avoided an early exit in Q2 but ultimately qualified fifth, a result that deals a significant blow to his fading championship aspirations.
Looking ahead to the race itself, Hamilton was realistic about the monumental challenge he faces, acknowledging that a recovery drive from the very back of the grid will be an exceptionally difficult task.
