Qatar Grand Prix
Qatar Grand Prix – Circuit Profile
F1 Schedule – Qatar Grand Prix
| Session | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Practice 1 | Friday 27 November | – |
| Practice 2 | Friday 27 November | – |
| Practice 3 | Saturday 28 November | – |
| Qualifying | Saturday 28 November | – |
| Grand Prix | Sunday 29 November | – |
About the Qatar Grand Prix
Formula 1’s fixture in the Persian Gulf, the Qatar Grand Prix, has rapidly forged its identity under the spectacle of powerful floodlights. This modern event transforms the desert into a brilliant arena for premier motorsport. Its position late in the season guarantees a high-pressure atmosphere, where championship aspirations are solidified or shattered against the backdrop of one of the world’s most advanced racing facilities. The race is a stark exhibition of modern Formula 1: immense speed, cutting-edge technology, and relentless competition.
The 5.419-kilometre Lusail International Circuit is a formidable challenge, defined by its relentless sequence of medium and high-speed corners that demand superior aerodynamic performance. The triple-apex right-hander of Turns 12-13-14 is particularly punishing, placing immense lateral loads on car and driver. While these flowing sections test stability, the primary overtaking zone remains the kilometre-long main straight into Turn 1. Managing tire degradation on the abrasive surface is critical, requiring a setup that balances cornering grip with essential straight-line speed.
Arriving in Qatar, the 2026 season narrative is dominated by radical new technical regulations. This Grand Prix is a crucial late-season examination of which teams and power unit suppliers have best interpreted the rules for sustainable fuels and simplified hybrid systems. With the championship fight intensifying, the focus is on reliability and aerodynamic efficiency. Any advantage gained here could prove decisive, while Lusail’s high-speed layout offers no place for teams to hide technical deficiencies in their new-generation cars.
When is the Qatar Grand Prix 2026?
The weekend adheres to the established format, kicking off with two practice sessions on Friday to dial in the cars under the floodlights. Saturday builds with a final practice session before the critical Qualifying hour sets the grid. The weekend culminates with the 57-lap Qatar Grand Prix, which takes place on Sunday evening.
What time does the Qatar Grand Prix start?
Lights out for the 2026 Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix is scheduled for 20:00 local time (17:00 UTC) on Sunday. Drivers will battle over 57 laps of the demanding Lusail circuit, with the race expected to last approximately 90 minutes under normal green-flag conditions. The track’s challenging nature means the potential for incidents and Safety Car periods could extend the duration.
