Qatar's Sprint Race and Grand Prix Qualifying: Live Updates
Opening Notes
The author is about to begin to take you through this day's short race (2pm GMT) and grid-setting session (6pm).
Current Events
Formation Lap Time
The starting lap has begun.
Circuit Details
There are nineteen laps around the lengthiest track in Formula 1, David Croft reminds us.
Final Moments
The last moments is underway.
Driver Situation
One point in Verstappen's advantage: his teammate Yuki Tsunoda is ahead of him by a single position. He is unlikely to interfere with Red Bull's lead driver.
Media Conversations
Sky's internal discussion now: Gary Neville is with Mercedes.
Karun Chandhok is looking forward to the 2026 season, interviewing the engineer about his promotion to Aston Martin lead role.
Starting Positions
There are only sixteen vehicles on the grid. This followed another poor grid-setting session for the driver: following his result of 20th and last in the previous race, leading to an eighth position in the grand prix, he failed to advance of Q1 once more on Friday. The team have as a result adjusted to his car configuration and so he begins from the pit lane.
Aston Martin's Stroll and the Alpine duo of Gasly and Colapinto are all doing likewise.
Racer Statements
"We take the experience for the next day," says Hadjar, starting eleventh. There will be plenty of learning.
Team Standings
The focus isn't solely on the drivers' title: The team have run away with the team championship but Mercedes, with a 40-point lead over their rivals, will be hoping to seal second place during this event. Russell can assist in this goal from the front row, and Kimi Antonelli will start just behind the leader.
Past Performance
Piastri was victorious then – as he did last year, as well. The driver from McLaren is attempting a third consecutive win.
Sprint Race Value
Right, just over twenty minutes remaining till the sprint race begins. Barring disaster, its main importance is as an indication of what is to come, rather than highly important in its itself, with only eight points available to the victor. Mind you, second place in this race was enough for the driver to claim the title two years ago.
Max Verstappen wins the championship following his teammate's accident of Qatar GP sprint race.
