Formula 1 live ticker: New rule for Monaco race! Norris on pole, Leclerc lurking

In a dramatic, heart-stopping finale, Lando Norris secured pole position for the Formula 1 classic in Monaco for the first time. The British McLaren driver overtook Monegasque Ferrari star Charles Leclerc with the fastest lap at the last minute. Last year's winner Leclerc seemed well on his way to claiming pole position for the second consecutive time. But with a stunning lap of 1:09.954 minutes, Norris thwarted that by a narrow margin of just 0.109 seconds.

"I'm very proud that we've accomplished this here. This is a special place for it," Norris said.

The 25-year-old, who now lives in Monaco, made it to pole for the eleventh time, only his second time this year after the opening race in Australia. "I've had some difficulties over the last few months," said Norris, reporting that he had fought his way out of that situation with meticulous work. His relief after his strong, flawless performance was evident.

Norris thus has a good chance of winning in Monaco for the first time on Sunday. Overtaking is difficult on the narrow strip of asphalt in the principality, and a starting position at the front is already a big step towards another Grand Prix triumph. However, a new rule will be applied for the first time: two pit stops are mandatory for all drivers. This is intended to increase the excitement by offering more tactical options.

World champion Max Verstappen of Red Bull is third, 22 points behind. He will start the Grand Prix from fourth place after Lewis Hamilton in the Ferrari was dropped three positions. The Briton had impeded Verstappen in qualifying.