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Preamble

Our correspondent will be here shortly to cover this day's short race (14:00 GMT) and grid-setting session (18:00 GMT).

Real-Time Updates

Warm-Up Lap Period

The starting lap is underway.

Circuit Details

There are nineteen laps of the longest circuit in F1, the commentator reminds us.

Final Moments

The final countdown is underway.

Racer Positions

An advantage in Max Verstappen's advantage: his teammate Tsunoda is in front of him by a single position. It's improbable to interfere with Red Bull's lead driver.

Media Conversations

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

Karun Chandhok is jumping ahead to the 2026 season, speaking with Adrian Newey about his promotion to Aston Martin lead role.

Starting Positions

Just sixteen vehicles on the grid. This followed another poor grid-setting session for the driver: 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 once more on the previous day. Ferrari have consequently made changes to his setup and so he will start from the starting area.

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

Driver Comments

"We'll use the experience for tomorrow," states Hadjar, 11th on the grid. Expect plenty of learning.

Constructors' Championship

It's not all about the drivers' title: McLaren have dominated the team championship but the team, with a 40-point lead over Red Bull, are aiming to seal second place this weekend. George Russell can help them achieve that from second place, and Antonelli will begin immediately after the leader.

Past Performance

Oscar Piastri was victorious then – as he managed last year, as well. McLaren's Australian is going for a hat-trick.

Short Race Importance

Right, just over twenty minutes remaining until the sprint race gets under way. Barring disaster, its main importance is as an indication of future events, instead of significant in its itself, with just eight championship points available to the winner. Mind you, the runner-up spot here was sufficient for Verstappen to become champion two years ago.

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