Qatar Sprint Race and Grand Prix Qualifying: Live Coverage
Introduction
Our correspondent is about to begin to cover today's short race (14:00 GMT) and grid-setting session (18:00 GMT).
Current Events
Warm-Up Lap Time
The formation lap is underway.
Circuit Details
There are 19 laps around the lengthiest track in Formula One, David Croft informs us.
Countdown
The final countdown has begun.
Driver Situation
An advantage in Max Verstappen's favour: his teammate Yuki Tsunoda is in front of him by one place. It's improbable to interfere with Red Bull's lead driver.
Media Conversations
Sky's internal discussion now: the analyst is with Mercedes.
Karun Chandhok is looking forward to 2026, interviewing the engineer about his stepping up to the team lead role.
Starting Positions
Just sixteen vehicles on the grid. It was another poor grid-setting session for Lewis Hamilton: after coming 20th and last in the previous race, resulting in an eighth position in the main race, he did not manage to advance of the first qualifying segment once more 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 pair of Pierre Gasly and Colapinto are all starting from the same position.
Racer Statements
"We take the experience for tomorrow," states Hadjar, starting eleventh. Expect 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 forty-point advantage over Red Bull, are aiming to secure the runner-up position this weekend. George Russell can assist in this goal from second place, and Antonelli will start just behind the leader.
Previous Results
Oscar Piastri won that day – as he did the previous season, as well. McLaren's Australian is going for a hat-trick.
Short Race Importance
Right, just over 20 minutes remaining until the short race begins. Unless something goes wrong, its main importance is as a preview of what is to come, rather than significant in its own right, with only eight points available to the victor. However, the runner-up spot here was sufficient for the driver to claim the title two years ago.
The driver claimed the championship after Pérez crashes out of the short race.
