It was a McLaren shootout for pole position at Formula One’s 2025 Qatar Grand Prix, and Oscar Piastri came out on top, beating Lando Norris by 0.108 seconds. Behind, Max Verstappen and George Russell will make up the second row on the grid for Sunday’s main race.

Qatar’s Lusail International Circuit is set to host the penultimate race of the 2025 season, presenting the earliest chance to name the Drivers’ World Champion. Following an eventful Las Vegas race, the title fight has intensified significantly, while various other narratives unfold as the championship arrives in Qatar.

Metallica’s performance at the Qatar Grand Prix was a standout moment of the Formula 1 weekend, yet it didn’t impress all fans. After the thrilling race at the Lusail International Circuit, the event offered not just an immersive Formula 1 experience but also a world-class live concert.

The penultimate race weekend of the 2025 Formula One season is underway, with Max Verstappen’s Las Vegas victory in the previous round — along with the dramatic disqualification of both McLaren drivers — meaning the drivers’ championship is now a genuine three-way fight.