Hamilton on pole

Lewis Hamilton lit up the new Yas Marina circuit as the sun set on the final qualifying session of the 2009 Formula One season.

Against the stunning backdrop of the Middle East’s new £800m (€893m) motor sport playground, last year’s world champion was quickest at the end of every period ahead of tomorrow’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

McLaren star Hamilton ultimately grabbed the 17th pole of his career in dominant fashion, finishing almost 0.7secs ahead of Sebastian Vettel as the Red Bull driver aims to cement 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.