Five things we learnt from qualifying at the Russian Grand Prix

Qualifying at the Russian Grand Prix taught us a lot. Charles Leclerc topped the timesheet yet again and Ferrari once again look like the team to beat. Here's a breakdown of the five things we learnt from today's session. 

1. Charles Leclerc is a future World Champion

We have known it for some time now but Leclerc is seriously fast. He has qualified on pole position at four consecutive Grand Prixs now and the last Ferrari driver to do that was Michael Schumacher back in 2001 when Leclerc was only three years old! 

The Ferrari driver is going to be a World Champion. It's just a matter of time. 

2. Lewis Hamilton relishing battle with young guns

After qualifying, Hamilton was visibly pleased with getting on the front row of the grid. He seems to have a really strong relationship with Leclerc and has a new energy as he is having to prove himself against Formula 1's latest crop of talent. 

3. McLaren are fast 

McLaren have been one of the most improved teams this season and are clearly the fastest midfield team. They have announced that they will be using a Mercedes engine from 2021 and this could be the final ingredient for them to return to the top of Formula 1. 

4. It's getting closer at the top 

The season started with Mercedes dominating every race but since the summer break, it has been all about Ferrari. Mercedes still have a significant points advantage but things are getting closer at the top of the standings. 

5. Sebastian Vettel needs to improve 

Leclerc has been the stand out Ferrari driver this season and Vettel needs to continue to improve if he is to keep the fans and pundits off his back. Vettel won in Singapore but lost out to Leclerc in qualifying again today. He will hope to have another solid race and get back to the form we know he has in him.