FIA's Qatar GP Lineup Misses All Three Title Contenders
None of the three Formula 1 title contenders will attend the traditional Thursday drivers' press conference at the Qatar Grand Prix, the penultimate round of the 2025 season. This unexpected lineup comes as the championship battle, potentially between Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, heats up, with Qatar being the final sprint event and featuring unique race regulations like a mandatory double pit stop.
The FIA has released its press conference schedule for the Qatar Grand Prix, the penultimate round of the 2025 season, but notably, none of the three Formula 1 title contenders will be present at the usual Thursday drivers' press conference. This unusual lineup decision has sparked discussion as the championship battle intensifies.
Why it matters:
- With the 2025 season nearing its thrilling conclusion and the Drivers' Championship potentially on the line, the absence of the top title contenders from the initial press conference is a significant departure from standard practice. This decision could influence how narratives are shaped heading into a crucial sprint weekend and the final race in Abu Dhabi.
- The Qatar GP is the final sprint event of the year, adding another layer of strategic complexity and potential championship permutations.
The Details:
- Thursday Drivers' Press Conference (17:30 local time): The first session will feature Oliver Bearman, Kimi Antonelli, and Liam Lawson, young talents and reserve drivers.
- Second Group (18:00 local time): Lewis Hamilton, Nico Hülkenberg, and Carlos Sainz are scheduled to attend. None of these drivers are currently in championship contention.
- Friday Team Principals' Press Conference (18:30 local time): This session, held between practice and sprint qualifying, will include Mario Isola (Pirelli), Frédéric Vasseur (Ferrari), and Steve Nielsen (Alpine).
- Championship Stakes: All eyes will be on whether Max Verstappen can keep the title fight alive against Lando Norris, who could potentially seal the world championship in Qatar. The scenario echoes the dramatic 2021 season finale.
- Weather and Regulations: High temperatures are expected, which historically impact car performance and driver endurance in Qatar. A special rule requiring a mandatory double pit stop will also return, adding another tactical element to the race.
What's next:
The focus remains on the track as the championship battle between Max Verstappen and Lando Norris reaches its climax. While the press conference lineup is unconventional, the on-track action in Qatar will undoubtedly provide the real answers as to who carries momentum into the Abu Dhabi finale. The unique sprint format and mandatory double pit stop rule promise an unpredictable and potentially title-deciding weekend.