Qatar's Sprint Race and Grand Prix Grid Setting: Live Updates

Introduction

Philip will be here shortly to take you through today's short race (14:00 GMT) and grid-setting session (18:00 GMT).

Current Events

Starting Lap Time

The starting lap is underway.

Circuit Details

There are nineteen laps of the longest circuit in Formula One, David Croft reminds us.

Countdown

The countdown has begun.

Driver Situation

An advantage in Max Verstappen's advantage: his fellow driver Tsunoda is in front of him by a single position. He is unlikely to mess with Red Bull's lead driver.

Media Conversations

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

The analyst is jumping ahead to the 2026 season, speaking with Adrian Newey about his stepping up to the team lead role.

Starting Positions

There are only sixteen vehicles 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 main race, he did not manage to make it out of the first qualifying segment again on Friday. The team have consequently adjusted to his setup and so he will start from the pit lane.

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

Driver Comments

"We take the experience for tomorrow," says Hadjar, 11th on the grid. Expect plenty of learning.

Constructors' Championship

It's not all about the drivers' title: The team have dominated the team championship but Mercedes, with a 40-point lead over their rivals, are aiming to seal second place during this event. Russell can assist in this goal from second place, and Antonelli will start just behind Verstappen.

Past Performance

Piastri was victorious then – as he managed last year, as well. McLaren's Australian is going for a hat-trick.

Sprint Race Value

Right, approximately 20 minutes remaining until the short race begins. Unless something goes wrong, it's greatest value is as a preview of what is to come, rather than significant in its own right, with just eight championship points available to the winner. Mind you, second place here was enough for Verstappen to claim the title in a prior season.

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