Qatar Sprint Race and Main Event Qualifying: Live Coverage
Opening Notes
Philip is about to begin to cover today's short race (14:00 GMT) and qualifying (6pm).
Current Events
Formation Lap Period
The formation lap has started.
Track Information
We have 19 laps around the lengthiest track in Formula 1, David Croft informs us.
Final Moments
The last moments has begun.
Driver Situation
One point in Max Verstappen's advantage: his fellow driver Tsunoda is in front of him by one place. He is unlikely to interfere with Red Bull's main man.
Interview Updates
Sky interviewing Sky now: the analyst 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 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 make it out of the first qualifying segment once more on the previous day. Ferrari have as a result adjusted to his setup and so he will start from the starting area.
Aston Martin's Stroll and the Alpine duo of Pierre Gasly and Colapinto are all starting from the same position.
Racer Statements
"We take the experience for tomorrow," states Hadjar, 11th on the grid. Expect a lot of that.
Team Standings
It's not all about the drivers' title: The team have run away with the constructors' gong but Mercedes, with a forty-point advantage over Red Bull, are aiming to seal second place during this event. George Russell can assist in this goal from second place, and Antonelli will begin immediately after Verstappen.
Past Performance
Oscar Piastri won that day – as he managed the previous season, as well. The driver from McLaren is attempting a hat-trick.
Short Race Importance
Right, just over 20 minutes to go until the sprint race begins. Barring disaster, its main importance is as a preview of future events, rather than significant in its itself, with just eight championship points available to the winner. Mind you, the runner-up spot in this race was enough for Verstappen to claim the title in a prior season.
Max Verstappen wins the championship following his teammate's accident of the short race.