Oscar Piastri secured pole position for the Qatar Sprint after a strong performance in the final phase of Sprint Qualifying. George Russell finished close behind in second place, while Lando Norris had to settle for third after a small mistake on his last lap. Max Verstappen had a difficult session and could only manage sixth, putting extra pressure on his championship fight.
Follow PaddockLines on social media: Facebook and Instagram
SQ1
SQ1 began with all drivers on medium tyres. Verstappen set the quickest lap of the session, while Piastri, Norris and Alonso all progressed safely.
The main surprise was Lewis Hamilton being knocked out. He complained about the lack of pace and finished well outside the top fifteen, ending his session much earlier than expected.
Out: Stroll, Lawson, Hamilton, Gasly, Colapinto
SQ2
In SQ2 the competition became much closer. Norris set the best time, just ahead of Piastri and Verstappen.
Some drivers saw their laps deleted for track-limits violations, including Isack Hadjar, which prevented him from reaching SQ3.
Out: Hadjar, Bearman, Bortoleto, Hulkenberg, Ocon
SQ3
Soft tyres were used for the final eight-minute phase. Piastri put together his best lap of the day and took pole for the sprint race. Russell was just shy of beating him.
Norris made a mistake in the final corner and could not improve, finishing third. Alonso and Tsunoda completed the top five. Verstappen again struggled with the car’s behaviour and finished sixth.
The result gives Piastri a great chance to score important points in the sprint race. Norris is still in a strong position but will need a solid start.
Verstappen’s sixth place could make his championship task harder if the team cannot solve the handling problems before the race.
The full results of the sprint qualifying according to FIA.com:
