Qatar's Short Race and Grand Prix Grid Setting: Real-Time Updates
Introduction
Our correspondent is about to begin to cover today's sprint race (2pm GMT) and grid-setting session (18:00 GMT).
Real-Time Updates
Formation Lap Time
The formation lap is underway.
Track Information
There are nineteen laps around the lengthiest track in Formula 1, David Croft points out.
Final Moments
The last moments is underway.
Racer Positions
One point in Verstappen's advantage: his teammate Yuki Tsunoda is ahead of him by a single position. He is unlikely to interfere with the team's main man.
Interview Updates
Sky speaking with Sky currently: Gary Neville is with Mercedes.
The analyst is looking forward to 2026, speaking with Adrian Newey about his promotion to Aston Martin lead role.
Grid Details
There are only 16 cars on the grid. It was another bad qualifying for Lewis Hamilton: following his result of 20th and last in Las Vegas, leading to an eighth-place finish in the grand prix, he failed to make it out of Q1 again on Friday. Ferrari have as a result adjusted to his car configuration and so he will start 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 experience for the next day," says Isack Hadjar, starting eleventh. There will be a lot of that.
Team Standings
The focus isn't solely on the individual championship: McLaren 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 help them achieve that from second place, and Kimi Antonelli will start just behind the leader.
Previous Results
Oscar Piastri was victorious then – as he managed the previous season, too. The driver from McLaren is attempting a third consecutive win.
Short Race Importance
Alright, just over twenty minutes remaining until the sprint race begins. Barring disaster, it's greatest value is as an indication of future events, rather than significant in its own right, with only eight points awarded to the winner. Mind you, second place here was enough for Verstappen to claim the title in a prior season.
Max Verstappen claimed the championship after Pérez crashes out of Qatar GP sprint race.
