Qatar Sprint Race and Main Event Grid Setting: Real-Time Coverage
Introduction
Our correspondent is arriving soon to guide you through this day's short race (2pm GMT) and qualifying (6pm).
Current Events
Starting Lap Period
The starting lap has started.
Track Information
There are 19 laps around the lengthiest track in Formula 1, the commentator informs us.
Final Moments
The final countdown is on.
Driver Situation
One point in Verstappen's advantage: his fellow driver Tsunoda is in front of him by a single position. He is unlikely to mess with the team's main man.
Interview Updates
Sky interviewing Sky currently: the analyst is with Mercedes.
The analyst is jumping ahead to the 2026 season, interviewing Adrian Newey about his stepping up to the team lead role.
Grid Details
Just sixteen vehicles on the grid. It was another poor grid-setting session for the driver: after coming 20th and last in Las Vegas, resulting in an eighth position in the grand prix, he failed to make it out of Q1 again on Friday. Ferrari have consequently adjusted to his car configuration and so he begins from the pit lane.
The team's Stroll and the Alpine duo of Gasly and Colapinto are all starting from the same position.
Racer Statements
"We take the experience for the next day," says Isack Hadjar, 11th on the grid. Expect plenty of learning.
Constructors' Championship
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, are aiming to seal second place this weekend. George Russell can help them achieve that from the front row, and Kimi Antonelli will begin immediately after the leader.
Previous Results
Oscar Piastri was victorious then – as he managed the previous season, too. The driver from McLaren is attempting a hat-trick.
Sprint Race Value
Right, just over 20 minutes remaining until the short race gets under way. Unless something goes wrong, its main importance is as an indication of what is to come, instead of significant in its own right, with only eight points available to the winner. Mind you, second place here was sufficient for the driver to become champion two years ago.
The driver claimed the championship following his teammate's accident of the short race.
