Kevin Magnussen’s pole position at the 2022 Sao Paulo Grand Prix stands out as one of Formula 1’s most thrilling qualifying moments in recent years. In a stunning turn of events, Magnussen delivered Haas’ its first-ever pole, beating out the top teams in unpredictable, changing weather conditions.

In Friday's qualifying session, which in the old weekend format would determine the grid for Saturday’s Sprint and, ultimately, Sunday’s race, the Interlagos circuit’s notorious weather took center stage.

As rain was expected, every driver aimed to set a fast lap early in Q3, knowing that conditions could worsen. Magnussen took full advantage, heading out first and setting a benchmark lap of 1:11.674—just ahead of Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and Mercedes’ George Russell.

The timing was perfect. Moments later, Russell lost control at Turn 4, sliding into the gravel and bringing out a red flag, pausing the session. With the rain intensifying during the delay, any hopes of improved lap times were dashed.

The wet track meant Magnussen’s early lap would hold as the best of the session, guaranteeing his maiden pole position and a historic first for Haas. The astonished 30-year-old was visibly emotional, celebrating a long-awaited career milestone and a defining moment for the team.

“What a day. And what a performance by the team,” Magnussen said after the quali.

“We nailed it today. The guys in the garage, on the pitwall, just nailed it.

“Getting me out on track as the first car, that was really the game-changer today, to give me that best piece of track.”

Haas team principal at the time, Guenther Steiner, highlighted: “Obviously some people will say we got lucky, but I think we didn’t get lucky.

“We did a good job and everything played to our favour because we are at the right end of the pitlane and we used that position.”

Magnussen’s pole position at Interlagos wasn’t just an achievement for him; it was a moment of pride for Haas and a reminder that Formula 1’s excitement often lies in its unpredictability.