LIVE COVERAGE: All the Action from Qualifying for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix

Qualifying underway for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix

Qualifying is underway for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, with Max Verstappen on provisional pole position after the first runs in Q3.

The Dutchman set a time of 1:07.334 on the soft tires, 0.123 seconds ahead of Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz.

George Russell is third for Mercedes, followed by Sergio Perez in the other Red Bull.

Sainz is hoping to take pole position at his home race, but he will need to improve on his final run.

The Spaniard was 0.024 seconds off Verstappen’s pace on his first run, but he will be hoping to close the gap on his final lap.

Russell is also a contender for pole, and he will be looking to build on his strong performance in Q2.

Verstappen is looking to extend his championship lead with a win in Sao Paulo.

The Dutchman has a 19-point lead over Perez in the standings, and he will be looking to increase his advantage with a victory.

A win for Verstappen would also give Red Bull the constructors’ championship.

Follow all the action from qualifying for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix live on F1.com and the F1 app.

Qualifying is scheduled to start at 4pm local time (7pm GMT).

The race will be held on Sunday at 3pm local time (6pm GMT).