With Verstappen on pole for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – taking his tally this year to 12 – and Hamilton adrift in 11th place, this was their respective fortunes writ large. After 22 race qualifying sessions Red Bull, even when apparently struggling, were on top when it mattered. Red Bull had struggled all weekend with Verstappen’s car to find the right balance and set-up in practice at Yas Marina. Hamilton struggled to control the rear of a car that was lacking balance and he went out in Q2 for the second race in succession. Asked his feelings knowing this was the last time he would have to qualify in this car, Hamilton was unequivocal. “I am happy that was the last qualifying of the season and we are going to come with a new car,” he said, with a similarly hang-dog air as Hamilton.

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