Rosberg on pole, Hamilton last

Nico Rosberg (Mercedes) won the 23rd pole of his career at the Chinese Grand Prix by setting a time of 1'35"402 in Q3. The Championship leader was half a second ahead of the Red Bull de Daniel Ricciardo which completes the first line in front of the Ferrari by Kimi Räikkönen and Sebastian Vettel who seemed able to claim the best place.

Valtteri Bottas (Williams) took fifth position ahead of Daniil Kvyat (Red Bull), Sergio Pérez (Force India), Carlos Sainz Jr and Max Verstappen (Toro Rosso). Nico Hulkenberg (Force India) completes the top ten having been able to compete in the last session after losing its left front wheel in Q2. The German could receive a penalty.

Romain Grosjean (Haas) took 14th position at the end of a session shortened by a red flag due to Nico Hülkenberg's concerns. Fernando Alonso (McLaren) took 12th position between Felipe Massa (Williams) and Jenson Button (McLaren). The Saubers of Marcus Ericsson and Felipe Nasr will start behind the Haas of Romain Grosjean.

Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) was eliminated in Q1 following Power Unit problems. The Briton will start last behind Pascal Wehrlein (Manor) who hit the safety rail on the pit straight after spinning and being unbalanced by a bump.

Kevin Magnussen failed at the gates of Q2 for two hundredths behind Felipe Nasr (Sauber). The Dane will start ahead of Esteban Gutiérrez (Haas), Jolyon Palmer (Renault) and Rio Haryanto (Manor).

Chinese Grand Prix qualifying results

The Chinese Grand Prix will begin tomorrow at 8 a.m. French time. The race will be followed live on Canal+.