Saturday: Hamilton delivers a 4th consecutive pole position for Mercedes
The first three practice sessions did not indicate Mercedes as a favorite for pole position, but Lewis Hamilton managed to be on track at the right time and secured his fourth consecutive pole position this season.
Lewis Hamilton – 12th and 1st
« The fourth pole in a row is amazing! The team did a very good job to have the perfect timing at the end of Q3, and I was in a good position on the track. I was so surprised when I crossed the line and was told I was in first position. I was wide in the first corner and thought I had lost too much time according to the indications on my steering wheel. I kept pushing and had a good second sector, and I saw that I could catch up to Sebastian at the end and it was a great feeling. I hope we can try and fight tomorrow, whatever the conditions. The Red Bulls are still ahead of us in terms of performance, so results like these are even more special because I know I have used the absolute maximum of myself and my capabilities. »
Nico Rosberg – 9th and 4th
« It was a very difficult qualifying session and unfortunately luck was not on my side today. When I crossed the checkered flag, I was the fastest at that moment, but the track was getting quicker for the other drivers who got an extra lap to potentially finish in the top three positions, so I have to be content with my fourth place on the grid. Our cars seem quite good in all conditions here this weekend, which gives me hope for a good performance in the race tomorrow afternoon. »
