F1 LIVE | Qualifying for the 2021 Russian Grand Prix

Qualifying for the Russian Grand Prix gets underway at 13:00. Where Mercedes are trying to secure the first two starting positions, Max Verstappen has little to fight for on Saturday afternoon.

The German racing team seems to be the big favourite to take victory in Russia this weekend. Valtteri Bottas and Lewis Hamilton set the fastest times in the first two free practice sessions and look set to do the same in qualifying. Verstappen had a new engine fitted to his car this weekend, so he will start from the back of the grid.

Race control decided to cancel the morning session due to the heavy rain that came over the track. As the rain continued it was not possible to dry the track and allow the drivers to enter the circuit safely.

Verstappen has a five-point lead over Hamilton in the world championship. A victory, however, would bring the seven-time world champion back into the lead, although it remains to be seen how big his advantage will be.