Qatar Short Race and Grand Prix Qualifying: Live Updates

Opening Notes

The author is arriving soon to cover today's sprint race (2pm GMT) and grid-setting session (6pm).

Current Events

Warm-Up Lap Time

The formation lap is underway.

Circuit Details

We have nineteen laps around the lengthiest track in Formula 1, the commentator informs us.

Countdown

The countdown has begun.

Racer Positions

An advantage in Max Verstappen's favour: his teammate Yuki Tsunoda is in front of him by a single position. He is unlikely to mess with the team's lead driver.

Interview Updates

Sky's internal discussion currently: Gary Neville is with Mercedes.

Karun Chandhok is looking forward to 2026, speaking with Adrian Newey about his promotion to Aston Martin team principal.

Starting Positions

Just sixteen vehicles on the grid. It was another bad qualifying for the driver: after coming twentieth and final in the previous race, resulting in an eighth position in the grand prix, he did not manage to advance of Q1 once more on the previous day. Ferrari have as a result adjusted to his setup and so he will start from the pit lane.

The team's Lance Stroll and the Alpine pair of Pierre Gasly and Colapinto are all starting from the same position.

Racer Statements

"We'll use the learning for tomorrow," says Hadjar, 11th on the grid. There will be plenty of learning.

Team Standings

The focus isn't solely on the individual championship: The team have dominated the constructors' gong but the team, with a 40-point lead over Red Bull, are aiming to secure the runner-up position this weekend. Russell can assist in this goal from the front row, and Antonelli will begin immediately after the leader.

Past Performance

Oscar Piastri won that day – as he managed the previous season, too. The driver from McLaren is going for a hat-trick.

Short Race Importance

Alright, approximately 20 minutes to go until the short race begins. Barring disaster, its main importance is as a preview of what is to come, rather than significant in its itself, with just eight championship points available to the winner. Mind you, second place here was sufficient for Verstappen to become champion two years ago.

The driver wins the championship after his teammate's accident of Qatar GP sprint race.