Mercedes' streak of pole positions in the first race of the V6 era ended today. Max Verstappen produced a stunning final lap in Q3 to beat Hamilton to pole by 0.388s. 

After topping all three practice sessions, Verstappen looked set for a huge fight with Hamilton in Q3 as the Brit was faster on the medium compound. However, the Dutchman got the job done and saved his best for last in the final segment, posting three purple sectors.  

“Basically my first lap in Q3 wasn’t amazing, so I knew there was more in it,” said Verstappen. 

“You never know how much. But finally the balance was there, and then you can push a little more. 

“The track is quite hot, so you have to be careful with not overheating the rear tyres. Luckily when we managed, we could perform.” 

The 2020 Red Bull was well known to be extremely tricky to drive, despite Verstappen taking two wins last year. He says the team has improved the car weaknesses and the hard work from the team has paid off.  

“The last few years it hasn’t really materialised but in a way, the regulations haven’t really changed a lot and we knew what our weaknesses were last year,” Verstappen said. 

“It seems like we addressed them so far at the beginning of the year. Of course, [I’m] very happy with that. 

“[It’s a] great start for us but no guarantees for the future. But very happy so far with the whole weekend. 

“I think it shows that the guys after the end of last year just kept pushing very hard and now the adjustments that have been made to the car, they’ve done a great job. So really happy for the whole team.” 

The 23-year-old also praised Honda for the gains they’ve made during the winter break before they depart the sport at the end of 2021.  

“Their turnaround has been pretty good and their understanding of the engine is impressive,” Verstappen said. 

“It’s really enjoyable to work with them as well, they’re really passionate and emotional, which I like. 

“They are just flat out all the time, they want to win, you can really see that. Big credit to them also for the result today. They had a great winter.” 

YES BOYS 🔥 It all worked out perfectly in qualifying! I’m really happy with pole position 🤘 Great job, by the whole team, here at the track and at the @redbullracing factory 👌 Thanks for the power, @HondaRacingF1 💪 #KeepPushing 🇧🇭 #BahrainGP pic.twitter.com/NaPVWxADa1

— Max Verstappen (@Max33Verstappen) March 27, 2021