Maya Weug Claims Pole Position in Dramatic F1 Academy Qualifying at Zandvoort

Home favorite Maya Weug delivered a stellar performance to secure pole position in a thrilling F1 Academy Qualifying session at the iconic Zandvoort circuit. The Ferrari Academy driver set the fastest lap of the session, narrowly edging out Red Bull's Alisha Palmowski by a mere 0.039 seconds. McLaren's Ella Lloyd completed the top three, capping off an intense battle for supremacy.

The session was anything but straightforward, with unpredictable weather conditions adding to the drama. Initial rainfall left the track damp, forcing all drivers to start on wet tires. However, as the skies cleared, the track gradually dried, prompting a switch to slick tires. This transition proved challenging for many, with several drivers struggling for grip and experiencing spins or contact with barriers.

The session was marred by two red flags. The first was caused by Aiva Anagnostiadis, who skidded into the gravel after an unfortunate collision with her teammate Nicole Havrda. Later, Aurelia Nobels beached her car in the gravel, bringing out the second red flag and further disrupting the rhythm of the session.

Despite the chaos, Weug remained composed, showcasing her skill and adaptability to secure pole. "The conditions were really tricky today, but the team gave me a fantastic car," Weug said after the session. "I'm thrilled to start on pole at my home race and can't wait for tomorrow."

With such a tightly contested qualifying session, the stage is set for a thrilling race as the F1 Academy grid prepares to battle it out at Zandvoort.