Rosberg on pole, Hamilton hits the wall in Baku

After achieving the hat-trick during free practice in Baku, Azerbaijan, scene of the 2016 European Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton was the favorite in the qualifying session held this Saturday afternoon. But a touch against the wall during the last part of the session ruined the world champion's hopes of taking the first pole on this track. The red flag was displayed while the population was evacuated. Mercedes W07 Hybrid n°44, with open right front axle.

Nico Rosberg will therefore start in pole position, thanks to a best lap established in 1’42″758, alongside the Red Bull de Daniel Ricciardo, third time, but who took advantage of the penalty of five places on the grid for a change of gearbox on the Force India of Sergio Pérez, to climb to the front row.

Both Ferrari de Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Räikkönen monopolize the second row and will be ahead of the start tomorrow Williams by Felipe Massa and the Toro Rosso by Daniil Kvyat. Sergio Pérez will start seventh after observing his penalty alongside Valtteri Bottas (Williams). Max Verstappen (Red Bull) signs the ninth fastest time ahead of Lewis Hamilton.

Romain Grosjean (Haas) will start from eleventh position with Nico Hulkenberg (Force India) in his wake, the German having disappointed somewhat after showing his advantage in free practice. 13th and 14th places for the Spaniards Carlos Sainz (Toro Rosso) and Fernando Alonso (McLaren).

Disappointment for Jenson Button (McLaren) eliminated in Q1 and who will start from 19th position behind the two Manor de Haryanto and Wehrlein, while both Renault de Magnussen and Palmer will bring up the rear on the grid. The European Grand Prix will be contested tomorrow from 15 p.m.

Qualification results