Verstappen masterful in Monaco to pip Alonso to pole

Reigning champion shows all of his brilliance in a scintillating qualifying session to steal front spot from veteran

FRONT RUNNERS: Aston Martin driver Fernando Alonso of Spain, left, speaks with Red Bull driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands in the pit area at the end of the Formula One qualifying session at the Monaco racetrack, in Monaco, Saturday, May 27, 2023. The Formula One race will be held on Sunday with Verstappen taking pole position. Pic: AP Photo/Luca Bruno

Max Verstappen saw off Fernando Alonso to take pole position in a scintillating qualifying session for the Monaco Grand Prix.

Alonso's Aston Martin mechanics celebrated wildly after it appeared as though the 41-year-old Spaniard had taken his first pole in 11 years.