Max Verstappen kicked off his Qatar Grand Prix weekend in style, as he went fastest in FP1. It’s the perfect start for the Red Bull driver who could secure his third drivers’ title in a row in tomorrow’s Sprint.
The Ferrari duo of Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc were second and third respectively – despite the latter querying a strange engine noise at one point in the pits – in a session that proved challenging for drivers thanks to the sand.
Grip was at a premium for many as the sand, combined with the wind, made the conditions hugely testing, with a number of drivers having wide moments at Turn 4 at the Lusail International Circuit.
With that in mind, qualifying later on could prove to be a highly eventful occasion with drivers at the limit while trying to avoid mistakes.
Click on the video above to catch all the highlights from the first – and only – practice session of the Qatar Grand Prix weekend.
Next Up
Related Articles
Bottas on how F1 drivers will adapt to the 2026 regulations.webp)
Quiz10 questions on McLaren World Champions.webp)
What F1 drivers have been up to over the festive holidays
Williams become latest team to announce 2026 livery reveal date
F1 AcademyPUMA select Rachel Robertson for 2026 season.webp)
How F1 drivers recharge during the winter break