F1 title fight intensifies after dramatic Mexico qualifying

Piastri, who has led the standings for much of the season, holds a slender 14-point advantage over Norris, with Verstappen a further 40 points adrift in third, a margin that could shrink further come Sunday's race.

Verstappen’s struggles were another key storyline. The Red Bull star, who has been dominant in previous weekends, could only manage fifth after battling persistent grip and balance issues throughout qualifying.

"I'm happy to be back on pole, it's actually been quite a long time," said Norris, via formula1.com. "It was one of those laps where you don't really know what happened, it felt decent but when I crossed the line and saw 1m 15.5s, I was very pleasantly surprised."

"I've been feeling good all weekend, especially from today, FP3, Q1, Q2, Q3. I got a little bit nervous of the Ferraris in Q3 at the end, but I pulled it out when it mattered and I'm happy because of that."

Mexico’s high-altitude setting once again proved a major factor. At 7,350 feet above sea level, teams faced familiar challenges with cooling, downforce and engine efficiency. 

McLaren appeared to adapt best, with Norris finding rhythm and balance that others lacked. Ferrari, meanwhile, showed encouraging signs of resurgence as Leclerc and Hamilton both threatened the front-runners.

For Piastri, the weekend could prove pivotal. As Norris hits top form, his teammates’ lead looks increasingly vulnerable. Should Norris convert pole into victory, the championship picture could be completely transformed heading into the final stretch.

After a season defined by momentum swings, Mexico’s dramatic qualifying session has ensured the 2025 Formula 1 title fight remains as unpredictable and fiercely contested as ever.