Qatar Grand Prix: Sprint Qualifying Live Updates

The Qatar Grand Prix Sprint Qualifying is set to kick off, with all 20 drivers vying for pole position in the upcoming Sprint race. This session is critical for championship contenders, as Lando Norris currently holds a 24-point lead over Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen.

Why it matters:

• The Sprint Qualifying session is not just about a strong starting grid for Saturday's Sprint race; it's a pivotal moment in the tight Drivers' Championship battle.
• With a maximum of 33 points available this weekend, every session, especially Sprint Qualifying and the Sprint race itself, becomes intensely competitive.
• A strong performance here is essential for Piastri and Verstappen to close the gap on championship leader Norris.

The details:

• Sprint Qualifying is scheduled to start at 20:30 local time at the Lusail Circuit in Qatar (17:30 GMT, 18:30 CET).
• The results will determine the grid for Saturday's 19-lap Sprint race, which awards a maximum of 8 points to the winner.
• Championship Stakes: Lando Norris leads the standings with 390 points, followed by Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen, both tied at 366 points.
  • Piastri has a strong track record at Qatar, having won the Sprint race two years in a row, making him a formidable challenger this weekend.
  • Verstappen, the 2024 Qatar Grand Prix winner, will also be eager to outscore his rivals and reclaim championship ground.

The big picture:

This weekend in Qatar could be a significant turning point in the 2025 F1 Drivers' Championship. With the points distributed across both the Sprint and the main Grand Prix, drivers need consistent performance throughout all sessions.

• The close points gap between the top three drivers means that even small gains or losses in Sprint Qualifying can have a ripple effect on their championship hopes.
• The strategic battle will be intense, as teams and drivers aim to balance outright pace with risk management in the shorter, more unpredictable Sprint format.

What's next:

Following Sprint Qualifying, the focus will immediately shift to the Sprint race on Saturday. The performance in this session will not only set the tone for the Sprint race but also provide crucial momentum for Sunday's main Grand Prix. All eyes will be on Norris, Piastri, and Verstappen as they continue their thrilling fight for the championship title.

F1 Drivers' Standings Ahead of Sprint Qualifying: | Standings | Drivers | Points | | --------- | -------------- | ------ | | P1 | Lando Norris | 390 | | P2 | Oscar Piastri | 366 | | P3 | Max Verstappen | 366 |