Formula One-bound teenager Max Verstappen crashes in Macau Grand Prix

Felix Rosenqvist will start the Macau Grand Prix from pole position after winning Saturday’s Qualification Race, but Formula One-bound teenager Max Verstappen will start from 24th after an embarrassing crash.

Verstappen, 17, damaged the left front corner of his car five laps into the 10-lap race after clipping a wall while challenging for the lead, then comically got stuck on the tight Melco hairpin; he had to retire in his final race in the junior ranks before joining Toro Rosso next season and will need a miracle to make an impression in Sunday’s race.

Verstappen’s gaffe means his weekend is all but over, and might provide fresh fuel for critics who say he is too young for Formula One.

Rosenqvist had a perfect view as he was behind the Dutchman, who was making his Macau debut.

“He braked too late, and slid into the wall, it’s quite a shame for him - but it made my lap a little bit easier.”

Rosenqvist started from pole, but was overtaken shortly after the start by Lucas Auer and Verstappen, who was aggressive early on - perhaps too aggressive.