Red Bull driver Max Verstappen is hoping for rain in Sunday's Chinese Grand Prix after he was unable to progress to Q2 on Saturday due to technical problems.

An issue with the car's ignition coil means Verstappen is set to start at the back of the grid after he could only set the 19th fastest time in qualifying.

Verstappen had to abandon his first run due to the technical issue and when he returned to the track the problem restricted his speed and he did not make it through to Q2.

The 19-year-old accepted Sunday's race in Shanghai is going to be tough but suggested the weather forecast could be in his favour as he attempts to work his way through the pack from the back.

"Starting from 19th on the grid is going to be tough but I think there is rain on the way," Verstappen said.

"There was something misfiring in the engine which meant we were down on power, I tried to do a lap that could at least get me through to Q2 but the issue just wouldn't let me.

"The guys will investigate this evening and I'm confident they can resolve it for the race. It is of course very unfortunate but these things happen and we need to move on.

"A bit of rain tomorrow will definitely help us but I think even in the wet it will be tough to challenge Ferrari and Mercedes."

Lewis Hamilton will start on pole after setting a new track record in Shanghai on Saturday and Verstappen believes a wet track would make for an entertaining race.

"We need to concentrate on what we have and do the best we can," Verstappen added. 

"I will go home tonight, get some good rest and sleep, then come to the track ready to attack on what will hopefully be a wet track.

"If it is dry tomorrow you lose too much time starting from where I am on the grid. We will see, some good overtakes and exciting racing is what I'm hoping for."