Qatar Short Race and Grand Prix Grid Setting: Live Coverage
Preamble
The author is about to begin to cover today's short race (2pm GMT) and grid-setting session (18:00 GMT).
Real-Time Updates
Warm-Up Lap Time
The starting lap is underway.
Circuit Details
There are 19 laps around the lengthiest track in Formula One, David Croft reminds us.
Final Moments
The final countdown has begun.
Driver Situation
An advantage in 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.
Interview Updates
Sky's internal discussion now: the analyst is with Mercedes.
The analyst is looking forward to the 2026 season, speaking with the engineer about his promotion to the team lead role.
Grid Details
Just 16 cars on the grid. It was another poor grid-setting session for Lewis Hamilton: following his result of 20th and last in Las Vegas, resulting in an eighth position in the grand prix, he failed to advance of the first qualifying segment again on the previous day. Ferrari have as a result adjusted to his car configuration and so he will start from the starting area.
The team's Lance Stroll and the Alpine pair of Pierre Gasly and Colapinto are all doing likewise.
Driver Comments
"We'll use the experience for the next day," states Isack Hadjar, 11th on the grid. There will be plenty of learning.
Constructors' Championship
It's not all about the drivers' title: 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 this weekend. George Russell can assist in this goal from second place, and Antonelli will begin immediately after the leader.
Previous Results
Piastri was victorious then – as he did last year, as well. McLaren's Australian is going for a hat-trick.
Sprint Race Value
Alright, just over 20 minutes remaining till the short race gets under way. Unless something goes wrong, its main importance is as an indication of what is to come, rather than highly important in its itself, with just eight championship points available to the winner. Mind you, the runner-up spot in this race was enough for the driver to claim the title two years ago.
Max Verstappen claimed F1 world title after Pérez crashes out of the short race.
