HIGHLIGHTS: Watch all the action from qualifying for the French Grand Prix

Since Paul Ricard returned to the Formula 1 calendar in 2018 it's been very much Mercedes territory: the Silver Arrows have taken pole, victory and topped every session at the French track – until now.

Max Verstappen was quickest in both FP2 and FP3 as Red Bull hinted they might have the pace to topple the reigning champions this weekend – and the Dutchman followed up that promise by grabbing a superb pole position ahead of Lewis Hamilton, meaning it's the two title rivals on the front row for Sunday's race.

REPORT: Verstappen beats title rival Hamilton to pole in thrilling French GP qualifying

Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez in the second Mercedes and Red Bull respectively were third and fourth, with Carlos Sainz the quickest Ferrari in fifth.

But it was all about the battle for pole at Le Castellet on Saturday as the championship contenders gave it everything in the tense final moments of Q3. Hit play on the video above to see how it all unfolded...