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Introduction

Our correspondent is about to begin to take you through today's sprint race (2pm GMT) and qualifying (18:00 GMT).

Real-Time Updates

Starting Lap Period

The formation lap has begun.

Track Information

There are 19 laps of the longest circuit in Formula 1, David Croft informs us.

Final Moments

The last moments has begun.

Driver Situation

One point in Max Verstappen's advantage: his fellow driver Yuki Tsunoda is in front of him by a single position. He is unlikely to mess with Red Bull's lead driver.

Interview Updates

Sky's internal discussion currently: the analyst is with Mercedes.

Karun Chandhok is jumping ahead to 2026, speaking with the engineer about his stepping up to Aston Martin lead role.

Starting Positions

Just 16 cars on the grid. This followed another poor grid-setting session for the driver: following his result of twentieth and final in the previous race, resulting in an eighth-place finish in the grand prix, he failed to make it out of Q1 once more on Friday. The team have consequently adjusted to his setup and so he will start from the pit lane.

Aston Martin's Stroll and the Alpine pair of Pierre Gasly and Colapinto are all doing likewise.

Racer Statements

"We'll use the learning for tomorrow," says Isack Hadjar, starting eleventh. Expect plenty of learning.

Team Standings

The focus isn't solely on the drivers' title: The team have dominated the team championship but the team, with a 40-point lead over their rivals, will be hoping to seal second place during this event. Russell can assist in this goal from second place, and Antonelli will begin immediately after Verstappen.

Past Performance

Piastri won that day – as he managed last year, too. McLaren's Australian is going for a third consecutive win.

Short Race Importance

Alright, approximately 20 minutes to go until the sprint race gets under way. Barring disaster, it's greatest value is as an indication of future events, instead of highly important in its own right, with only eight points awarded to the victor. However, second place here was enough for Verstappen to become champion in a prior season.

The driver wins F1 world title after Pérez crashes out of Qatar GP sprint race.