Qatar Short Race and Grand Prix Qualifying: Live Updates
Introduction
The author will be here shortly to take you through this day's sprint race (2pm GMT) and grid-setting session (6pm).
Live Feed
Starting Lap Time
The warm-up lap has begun.
Circuit Details
There are nineteen laps around the lengthiest track in Formula 1, the commentator informs us.
Countdown
The countdown has begun.
Driver Situation
An advantage in Verstappen's favour: his teammate Tsunoda is in front of him by a single position. He is unlikely to interfere with the team's main man.
Media Conversations
Sky interviewing Sky now: the analyst is at the Mercedes team.
The analyst is jumping ahead to the 2026 season, speaking with the engineer about his promotion to the team team principal.
Grid Details
There are only 16 cars on the grid. This followed another poor grid-setting session for the driver: following his result of 20th and last in Las Vegas, leading to an eighth-place finish in the grand prix, he failed to advance of the first qualifying segment once more on Friday. The team have consequently adjusted to his car configuration and so he begins from the pit lane.
The team's Lance Stroll and the Alpine duo of Pierre Gasly and Colapinto are all doing likewise.
Racer Statements
"We take the learning for tomorrow," states Isack Hadjar, 11th on the grid. Expect plenty of learning.
Team Standings
It's not all about the drivers' title: McLaren have dominated the constructors' gong but the team, with a 40-point lead over their rivals, are aiming to seal second place this weekend. Russell can help them achieve that from second place, and Antonelli will start just behind the leader.
Past Performance
Oscar Piastri won that day – as he managed the previous season, too. McLaren's Australian is attempting a third consecutive win.
Sprint Race Value
Alright, approximately 20 minutes remaining till the short race begins. Unless something goes wrong, its main importance is as an indication of what is to come, instead of significant in its own right, with just eight championship points available to the winner. However, the runner-up spot in this race was enough for the driver to become champion in a prior season.
Max Verstappen claimed the championship following Pérez crashes out of Qatar GP sprint race.
