High-Octane Action Kicks Off Qatar Grand Prix Weekend

The FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2025 officially began on November 28, 2025, at the Lusail International Circuit in Doha, setting the stage for a thrilling weekend of racing. The event featured an array of practice sessions, Sprint Qualifying, and engaging fan activities, resulting in packed grandstands and an energetic atmosphere for attendees of all ages.

Exciting Practice Sessions Unfold

The day’s activities launched with the first practice session of the Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East. Driver Taichi Watarai from Seven X Seven secured pole position, clocking a time of 1:58.969. Following closely were Caleb Sumich from DHL Team in second and Khaled Alahmadi of Saudi Racing in third with a time of 2:00.046.

The FIA Formula 2 also showcased its talent, with Leonardo Fornaroli of Invicta Racing setting the pace at 1:38.656. He was followed by Dino Beganovic from Hitech TGR and Alexander Dunne of Rodin Motorsport, rounding out the top three.

The only Formula 1 practice session at LIC saw Oscar Piastri of McLaren dominate the late runs on soft tires, achieving a remarkable time of 1:20.924. This was more than a second faster than the previous year’s top FP1 time. His teammate, Lando Norris, finished just behind him at 1:20.982, while Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin claimed third place.

Intense Qualifying Sets the Stage for Sprint Race

The second practice session of the Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East was equally competitive, with Watarai again taking pole, this time posting a faster time of 1:57.441. Sumich maintained his second position, while Max Mutschlechner from Intercable Racing secured third with a time of 1:58.358.

The highly anticipated qualifying session for the FIA Formula 2 Championship took place in the evening, resulting in a fierce competition. Oliver Goethe of MP Motorsport clinched pole with a time of 1:36.115, followed closely by Fornaroli and Victor Martins from ART Grand Prix.

The day’s highlight was the Sprint Qualifying for the FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX. Piastri put forth a stunning performance, securing pole with a time of 1:20.055. George Russell of Mercedes narrowly missed the top spot by just 0.032 seconds, while Norris finished third.

Fans enjoyed unique interactions with drivers and team managers during the Fan Forum, providing an opportunity for international attendees to engage directly with their favorite teams. Paddock Club guests experienced an exclusive Pit Lane Walk, gaining insights into team operations and strategies. The entertainment continued with a performance by British singer Seal, captivating the audience at the Lusail Live Stage.

With the Sprint race scheduled for Saturday, excitement is high as Qatar stands out as one of only six venues selected by FORMULA 1 to host this thrilling format in 2025. The 100 km Sprint race promises intense competition without mandatory pit stops, ensuring a spectacular spectacle under the lights.

Fans attending the event should note that circuit gates will open at 13:30 on Saturday. Ticket holders can redeem complimentary Metro passes at designated locations, and the Doha Metro will operate extended hours from 05:00 to 01:30, with shuttle services running from Lusail QNB Station to the circuit.