2025 F1 Qatar Grand Prix: Schedule and Title Race Stakes
The 2025 F1 Qatar Grand Prix, the 23rd race of the season, is set to be a crucial battleground for the drivers' championship. Following McLaren's double disqualification in Las Vegas, Max Verstappen is now just 24 points behind Lando Norris, who can secure the title in Qatar if he gains a 26-point lead. The race weekend features a Sprint format, with the main Grand Prix scheduled for Sunday, November 30th, at 16:00 GMT, promising a thrilling climax to the season.
The 2025 Qatar Grand Prix, the 23rd round of the Formula 1 season, takes center stage with the drivers' title fight intensifying after a dramatic Las Vegas Grand Prix. Max Verstappen now sits just 24 points behind Lando Norris, and level with Oscar Piastri, following McLaren's double disqualification in Vegas for excessive plank wear.
Why it matters:
After a shock outcome in Las Vegas, the championship battle has been blown wide open. What was once a comfortable lead for Norris has been significantly reduced, setting the stage for a nail-biting conclusion to the season. The Qatar Grand Prix could be a pivotal moment, potentially crowning a champion or tightening the race even further with only one event remaining.
The details:
- Championship Standings Shift: Prior to the disqualifications, Verstappen was 42 points adrift of Norris. He is now within striking distance of both McLaren drivers.
- Norris's Title Scenario: Lando Norris can clinch the title in Qatar if he outscores both Piastri and Verstappen by at least two points. A 26-point lead after Sunday's race would secure him the championship.
- Key Sessions Schedule (all times GMT):
- Friday, November 28th:
- Free Practice: 13:30
- Sprint Qualifying: 17:30
- Saturday, November 29th:
- Sprint Race: 14:00
- Grand Prix Qualifying: 18:00
- Sunday, November 30th:
- Qatar Grand Prix (57 laps): 16:00
- Friday, November 28th:
The big picture:
The 2025 season has delivered unexpected twists, with McLaren's strong performance and subsequent penalty in Las Vegas reshaping the championship narrative. Qatar now presents the penultimate opportunity for drivers to gain crucial points. The Sprint format adds another layer of strategy and potential for points swings, making every session critical for the title contenders.
What's next:
The 2025 F1 Qatar Grand Prix will unfold over three days, culminating in Sunday's main race. The outcome will either see Lando Norris crowned champion or set up a winner-take-all scenario for the final race of the season. Fans are advised to check the schedule adjusted to their local time zone to catch all the action as the championship battle reaches its climax.