Qatar Short Race and Grand Prix Qualifying: Live Coverage

Introduction

The author is arriving soon to cover today's sprint race (14:00 GMT) and grid-setting session (18:00 GMT).

Live Feed

Warm-Up Lap Time

The warm-up lap is underway.

Track Information

We have nineteen laps of the longest circuit in F1, the commentator points out.

Countdown

The countdown has begun.

Racer Positions

One point in Max Verstappen's favour: his fellow driver Yuki Tsunoda is in front of him by one place. It's improbable to challenge the team's main man.

Media Conversations

Sky's internal discussion currently: the analyst is at the Mercedes team.

Karun Chandhok is looking forward to the 2026 season, speaking with the engineer about his stepping up to Aston Martin lead role.

Grid Details

Just 16 cars on the grid. It was another poor grid-setting session for Lewis Hamilton: after coming 20th and last in the previous race, leading to an eighth position in the grand prix, he failed to make it out of the first qualifying segment again on Friday. The team have as a result adjusted to his setup and so he begins from the pit lane.

The team's Stroll and the Alpine pair of Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto are all doing likewise.

Racer Statements

"We take the experience for tomorrow," states Hadjar, starting eleventh. Expect plenty of learning.

Team Standings

It's not all about the drivers' title: McLaren have run away with the constructors' gong but the team, with a 40-point lead over their rivals, will be hoping to seal second place this weekend. George 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 did the previous season, as well. The driver from McLaren is attempting a third consecutive win.

Short Race Importance

Right, approximately 20 minutes remaining until the short race begins. Barring disaster, it's greatest value is as an indication of future events, rather than highly important in its own right, with just eight championship points available to the winner. However, the runner-up spot here was enough for Verstappen to claim the title in a prior season.

The driver wins the championship after Pérez crashes out of Qatar GP sprint race.