WATCH: 'Master at work' - Fans celebrate Max Verstappen's flying Qualifying Lap during Austrian Grand Prix

Max Verstappen delivered a stunning performance in qualifying, securing pole position for the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix. The Dutch driver exhibited exceptional skill and precision, outpacing his competitors significantly. His closest rival, Lando Norris, trailed by four-tenths of a second, underlining Verstappen's dominance on the track.

Verstappen's flawless lap showcased his mastery of the Red Bull Ring, a track known for its challenging corners and high-speed straights. The reigning world champion demonstrated why he is leading the World Championship, combining speed with impeccable control to set the fastest time on the sheet.

Here is the video:

Max Verstappen was on another level in qualifying 💪



Sit back and watch a master at work 🤩 #F1 #AustrianGP @pirellisport pic.twitter.com/MWLvXBFq52

— Formula 1 (@F1) June 29, 2024

Behind Verstappen and Norris, George Russell claimed the third spot on the grid, putting in a solid performance for Mercedes. His teammate, Lewis Hamilton, will start from fifth, just behind Ferrari's Carlos Sainz in fourth. Both Mercedes drivers showed promise, but they were unable to match the pace set by Verstappen's Red Bull.

Also WATCH: Max Verstappen's 1000 IQ move to win three-way battle

Toto Wolff declares Max Verstappen winner

Charles Leclerc and Oscar Piastri faced difficulties during qualifying, ending up in sixth and seventh positions, respectively. Despite their efforts, they couldn't break into the top five, reflecting the intense competition and the high standards set by the front runners.

Also WATCH: Carlos Sainz's blistering move to steal P4 from George Russell

Sergio Perez, Verstappen's teammate, continued to struggle with his car, qualifying in eighth place. Perez's performance lagged significantly behind Verstappen, with an eight-tenth gap highlighting his ongoing challenges. Completing the top ten were Nico Hülkenberg of Haas and Esteban Ocon of Alpine, both delivering commendable performances to secure ninth and tenth places.

Also WATCH: Charles Leclerc's magical triple overtake during sprint race in Austria

Meanwhile, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff admired Verstappen's performance, acknowledging the significant gap between the Dutch driver and the rest of the field. "Max is driving in another hemisphere," Wolff told Sky Sports. "The gap to him is huge, and that on a circuit with a lap time of just one minute."

Also WATCH: Nico Hulkenberg's bizarre overtake on Alonso costs him five place grid drop

Wolff highlighted the challenges faced by Mercedes, particularly in terms of downforce, which he believes is the key factor behind their inability to match Red Bull's pace. Despite these challenges, the team remains hopeful for a strong performance in the 66-lap race.

Here is how fans react to Verstappen's amazing performance: 

MAX IS SO GOOD

— Deeway (@DeewayBoy) June 29, 2024

Sharp driving, MV

— 카에이스 (@Keepb1t) June 29, 2024

Incredible

— The Ghost🇦🇱 (@urim999) June 29, 2024

Senna and Schumacher were fantastic but what Verstappen showed is incredible. Already the best of all time.

— The only special one 🇳🇱 (@derksen_jo70363) June 29, 2024

The difference Max is making when you look where Perez in the other Redbull is placing, really does show just how good he is, credit where it’s due! - Hamilton fan

— Jordan (@jzrdan) June 30, 2024

When Max is happy with the car he makes the rest of the grid look like amateur.

— a*Hui (@F1fan312) June 30, 2024

Boring.. Looks staged to me. What’s in Max’s car that not even his own team mate has?

— Lk (@lakeside1881) June 29, 2024