LIVE: 2025 F1 Qatar Grand Prix - Sprint Qualifying
McLaren is the clear favorite for the Qatar Sprint qualifying after a dominant practice, with Oscar Piastri leading and Lando Norris close behind. Norris is in a crucial position to secure the drivers' title. While Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso was McLaren's closest rival, Max Verstappen of Red Bull struggled, finishing sixth and expressing dissatisfaction with his RB21, signaling significant work ahead for his team. The sprint qualifying results will be critical for championship contenders.
McLaren enters Sprint qualifying for the Qatar Sprint race as the clear favorite from pole position, following a dominant display in practice. Oscar Piastri set the pace in practice at the Lusail International Circuit, with Lando Norris just 0.058s adrift, highlighting McLaren's strong form. This weekend is crucial for Norris, as he aims to secure the drivers' title.
Why it matters:
McLaren's dominant performance in practice positions them as a formidable contender for the Qatar Sprint, potentially impacting the constructors' championship and Lando Norris's bid for the drivers' title. A strong showing here could significantly shift momentum in the latter stages of the season.
The details:
- McLaren's Dominance: Oscar Piastri led practice at the Lusail International Circuit, with Lando Norris only 0.058s behind, showcasing the team's exceptional pace.
- Norris's Title Hopes: This weekend is pivotal for Lando Norris, who has a strong chance to secure the drivers' championship.
- Aston Martin's Challenge: Fernando Alonso, in his Aston Martin, was McLaren's closest competitor but still almost four-tenths slower than Piastri, indicating a significant gap to the frontrunners.
- Red Bull's Struggles: Max Verstappen, finishing sixth in practice and nearly six-tenths down on Piastri, expressed dissatisfaction with his RB21. Red Bull faces a substantial challenge to address these issues before sprint qualifying.
- Verstappen's complaints about his car suggest underlying setup or performance problems that need urgent attention from the Milton Keynes-based outfit.
What's next:
Red Bull has critical work ahead to resolve Verstappen's complaints and find a competitive setup for the RB21. Meanwhile, McLaren will aim to translate their practice dominance into a strong qualifying performance and ultimately, a victory in the Sprint race. The outcome of Sprint qualifying will set the stage for a thrilling Qatar Grand Prix weekend, with championship implications at stake.