Abu Dhabi F1: Lewis Hamilton grabs pole position after pulsating qualifying

Mercedes world champion secures first pole position since July

Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton during the qualifying session at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi. AFP

Lewis Hamilton grabbed pole position for the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix after a thrilling qualifying session at the Yas Marina Circuit on Saturday.

Hamilton set the pace with a fastest lap of 1:34.799, with Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas close behind and Red Bull's Max Verstappen the third quickest.

However, Bottas will start the race at the back of the grid due to engine penalties, meaning Verstappen will join Hamilton in the front row on Sunday.

The pole was Hamilton's first since July. Hamilton, who has already clinched the world championship, said he was pleased with Saturday's result.

"It's been a long slog trying to get back on pole. We've been working really hard and the other drivers have also been doing really well on Saturdays. But we never stop working, we never give up and we're always looking for those extra milliseconds," Hamilton said.

More to follow ...