F1: Chequered Flag Qatar Grand Prix Preview
Nov 28, 2025
Andrew Benson, BBC Formula 1 correspondent, and Marc Priestley, former McLaren mechanic, dive into the thrilling build-up to the Qatar Grand Prix. They discuss Lando Norris's championship hopes after the Vegas disqualifications, with insights on sprint qualifying dynamics. The duo analyzes Max Verstappen's car challenges and Aston Martin's performance, particularly Fernando Alonso’s standout lap. They also explore McLaren's team harmony and the strategies drivers might employ in this crucial sprint weekend.
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Vegas Shock Reopens The Title
- The Vegas double disqualification suddenly tightened the 2025 championship, bringing Max Verstappen back into contention.
- Qatar is now a sprint weekend with complex maths: Norris needs two points across the weekend to clinch the title.
Piastri Finds His Qatar Rhythm
- Oscar Piastri took sprint pole in Qatar, regaining confidence after a dip in form.
- Lando Norris made small mistakes and ended up third, leaving Piastri out of trouble for the sprint.
Verstappen's Car Balance Worries
- Max Verstappen struggled in qualifying with bouncing and balance issues, unusually out-qualified by Yuki Tsunoda.
- Red Bull's car balance problems echoed previous sprints where setup windows were hard to find.