The engines come alive in the desert of Losail as Formula 1 takes to the track for FP1 at the Qatar Grand Prix. This is the first and only free practice session of the weekend, and we will follow it live as the teams work to find the best possible set-up ahead of Sprint qualifying.
In the warm and dusty atmosphere of Losail, every team will focus on maximising their preparation from the very first minutes, as there will be no second chance to collect crucial data before the fight for pole position in the Sprint Shootout.
Ferrari arrives at this event sitting fourth in the constructors’ standings and must push hard to try to secure at least third place. There is a 20-point gap between the Maranello team and Red Bull, making every session increasingly decisive in the closing phase of the season.
The Qatar Grand Prix will also be crucial for the drivers’ championship. Lando Norris leads with 390 points, followed by Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen, both tied on 366 points. If the British driver wants to strengthen his world title hopes, he must absolutely finish the race ahead of both his McLaren teammate and the Dutch Red Bull driver.
The Losail circuit has traditionally suited McLaren, although last year it was Max Verstappen who won the race. Charles Leclerc and Oscar Piastri completed the podium in second and third place respectively. Strategy will once again be a major factor: Pirelli has imposed a maximum of 25 laps per tyre set and two mandatory pit stops, a rule that could heavily influence the outcome of the race.
FP1 for the Qatar Grand Prix is scheduled to begin at 14:30 Central European Time, with our live coverage starting at around 14:25 to follow every moment of the session in real time.
F1, Qatar GP 2025: what is the weather forecast for the weekend?
What conditions can teams expect at Losail throughout the weekend? The forecast indicates clear skies from Friday to Sunday, with mild temperatures around 21°C and no risk of rain. Ideal conditions for a high-intensity race weekend.
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