Qatar's Sprint Race and Main Event Qualifying: Live Coverage
Introduction
Our correspondent is about to begin to take you through today's short race (14:00 GMT) and grid-setting session (18:00 GMT).
Real-Time Updates
Warm-Up Lap Time
The warm-up lap is underway.
Circuit Details
We have nineteen laps around the lengthiest track in Formula 1, the commentator reminds us.
Countdown
The countdown is underway.
Driver Situation
One point in Max Verstappen's favour: his fellow driver Yuki Tsunoda is in front of him by one place. It's improbable to challenge the team's lead driver.
Interview Updates
Sky's internal discussion now: Gary Neville is at the Mercedes team.
The analyst is looking forward to 2026, speaking with Adrian Newey about his promotion to the team lead role.
Starting Positions
Just 16 cars on the grid. This followed another poor grid-setting session for the driver: following his result of twentieth and final in Las Vegas, resulting in an eighth-place finish in the grand prix, he failed to advance of the first qualifying segment once more on Friday. Ferrari have as a result made changes to his setup 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 the next day," states Hadjar, 11th on the grid. Expect plenty of learning.
Constructors' Championship
The focus isn't solely on the individual championship: McLaren have dominated the constructors' gong but Mercedes, with a 40-point lead over their rivals, will be hoping to seal second place during this event. George Russell can assist in this goal from second place, and Kimi Antonelli will start just behind the leader.
Previous Results
Oscar Piastri was victorious then – as he managed the previous season, too. McLaren's Australian is going for a third consecutive win.
Short Race Importance
Right, approximately 20 minutes to go till the sprint race begins. Barring disaster, its main importance is as a preview of future events, rather than highly important in its own right, with only eight points available to the victor. Mind you, the runner-up spot in this race was enough for the driver to become champion two years ago.
The driver claimed F1 world title following his teammate's accident of the short race.
