SAKHIR: Max Verstappen’s quest for a fourth consecutive Formula One title began in style on Friday with the Red Bull ace claiming pole for the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix.

Charles Leclerc’s Ferrari will start alongside Verstappen on the front row for Saturday’s first of 24 races this year.

Verstappen’s 33rd career pole and third in Bahrain was a welcome boost for the Red Bull team.

The Mercedes of George Russell and Carlos Sainz in the other Ferrari fill the second row. Sergio Perez in the second Red Bull and Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin occupy the third row.

Then came Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri in the McLarens, with Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) and Nico Hulk­enberg (Haas) completing top 10.

Published in Dawn, March 2nd, 2024