A SPECIAL ONE, MAX

Verstappen: A lot of cars were quick and I see a proper battle

- By DANIEL MOXON

AFTER a special lap like that, it was only fitting that he received his prize from the Special One.

It wasn't the result the locals wanted, but no one could deny that Max Verstappen produced something remarkable yesterday to get the pole position award handed to him by Jose Mourinho. Because Red Bull were truly nowhere in practice.

But it’s like Lewis Hamilton said, “Max always comes out of nowhere”.

You can never count out the four-time champion and the Dutch lion roared while, in their final efforts, the Brits were a little too tame.

Hamilton was on target until a mistake at the final corner meant fifth was the best he could do.

George Russell will start fourth and was baffled by Mercedes' lack of performance on a cold track, conditions that their car usually loves.

And Lando Norris could only go third quickest and said: “I'm gutted not to put it on pole.”

They make up a trio of Brits who can pile the pressure on Verstappen and Oscar Piastri, the championship leader joining the Dutchman on the front row.