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Introduction

The author is about to begin to guide you through today's sprint race (2pm GMT) and qualifying (18:00 GMT).

Real-Time Updates

Starting Lap Time

The warm-up lap is underway.

Track Information

We have nineteen laps of the longest circuit in Formula One, David Croft informs us.

Countdown

The final countdown is underway.

Driver Situation

An advantage in Max Verstappen's favour: his fellow driver Tsunoda is in front of him by one place. It's improbable to mess with Red Bull's lead driver.

Media Conversations

Sky speaking with Sky now: the analyst is with Mercedes.

Karun Chandhok is looking forward to the 2026 season, interviewing Adrian Newey about his promotion to the team lead role.

Grid Details

There are only 16 cars on the grid. It was another poor grid-setting session for Lewis Hamilton: after coming twentieth and final in Las Vegas, leading to an eighth position in the grand prix, he did not manage to advance of the first qualifying segment again on the previous day. The team have consequently adjusted to his car configuration and so he begins from the starting area.

Aston Martin's Lance Stroll and the Alpine pair of Pierre Gasly and Colapinto are all starting from the same position.

Racer Statements

"We'll use the learning for tomorrow," says Hadjar, 11th on the grid. There will be a lot of that.

Team Standings

It's not all about the drivers' title: The team have dominated the team championship but Mercedes, with a 40-point lead over Red Bull, are aiming to secure the runner-up position this weekend. George Russell can assist in this goal from second place, and Antonelli will start just behind the leader.

Previous Results

Oscar Piastri won that day – 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 gets under way. Barring disaster, it's greatest value is as an indication of future events, instead of significant in its own right, with just eight championship points available to the winner. However, second place here was sufficient for Verstappen to become champion two years ago.

Max Verstappen wins F1 world title after his teammate's accident of Qatar GP sprint race.