Qatar Sprint Race and Grand Prix Qualifying: Live Updates
Introduction
The author will be here shortly to guide you through today's short race (2pm GMT) and grid-setting session (18:00 GMT).
Current Events
Formation Lap Period
The warm-up lap has started.
Circuit Details
We have 19 laps around the lengthiest track in Formula 1, the commentator informs us.
Countdown
The final countdown is underway.
Driver Situation
One point in Max Verstappen's advantage: his fellow driver Tsunoda is ahead of him by a single position. He is unlikely to interfere with Red Bull's main man.
Interview Updates
Sky's internal discussion now: the analyst is at the Mercedes team.
Karun Chandhok is looking forward to 2026, speaking with the engineer about his stepping up to Aston Martin team principal.
Starting Positions
Just sixteen vehicles on the grid. It was another bad qualifying for the driver: following his result of twentieth and final in Las Vegas, resulting in an eighth-place finish in the grand prix, he did not manage to advance of the first qualifying segment again on the previous day. Ferrari have as a result adjusted to his car configuration and so he will start from the pit lane.
The team's Stroll and the Alpine duo of Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto are all doing likewise.
Racer Statements
"We'll use the learning for tomorrow," says Isack Hadjar, 11th on the grid. Expect plenty of learning.
Team Standings
It's not all about the individual championship: The team have run away with the constructors' gong but the team, with a forty-point advantage over Red Bull, are aiming to secure the runner-up position this weekend. Russell can assist in this goal from second place, and Kimi Antonelli will start just behind the leader.
Previous Results
Oscar Piastri was victorious then – as he did last year, too. The driver from McLaren is attempting a hat-trick.
Short Race Importance
Right, just over 20 minutes to go till the sprint race begins. Barring disaster, it's greatest value is as a preview of future events, rather than significant in its itself, with only eight points awarded to the victor. However, the runner-up spot here was sufficient for Verstappen to claim the title in a prior season.
The driver wins F1 world title after Pérez crashes out of the short race.
