McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton will start on pole position for tomorrow’s inaugural Abu Dhabi grand prix at after topping qualifying ahead of the Red Bull team-mates, Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber.

Against the stunning backdrop of the Middle East’s new £800m motorsport playground, last year’s world champion was quickest at the end of every period.

Hamilton ultimately grabbed the 17th pole of his career in dominant fashion, finishing almost 0.7sec ahead of Vettel as the Red Bull driver aims to secure second place in the drivers’ standings.

Hopes of an all-British front row for the first time since the 1995 Australian grand prix came to nothing as new world champion, Jenson Button, will start fifth in his Brawn GP.

After his fourth pole in the last seven races, Hamilton paid tribute to both his car, and the new circuit.

"It’s never easy, but it was definitely as fun as it looked. The car is the best it has been all year. It was a smooth lap, and it just kept getting better and better."

"The place is just stunning, They all said it would be a great event, but it’s mind-blowing. It’s a great place to come to, a great country. The weather has been great and the people are so respectful and so welcoming. I hope we can put on a great show tomorrow."

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