Charles Leclerc was the leading Ferrari in fifth, with Lewis Hamilton, who had topped Q1 and Q2, winding up sixth after a scrappy final lap that included a big lock-up at Turn 15.
Carlos Sainz was seventh in the second Ferrari ahead of Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso, while Sergio Perez, who had been second in Q2, could only manage ninth after struggling for grip in Q3.
Kevin Magnussen rounded out the top 10 for Haas.
Verstappen’s grid drop therefore promotes Russell to his first pole position in Formula 1.
The last time the Briton started at the front of the grid was at the Hungarian Grand Prix in August.
The Qatar Grand Prix takes place on Sunday, with the race starting at 5pm UK time.
Hello! How can I assist you today?