Hamilton emerged on pole position after an intense final battle for the top spot. He marginally pipped Vettel by 0.051. Bottas who throughout qualifying looked to be a contender for the pole, had to settle for third, in front of Raikkonen.
- Mercedes have this new old engine situation figured out. I've seen this before somewhere
- Russia was unwelcome diversion from the script that needed to be corrected. I want my points.