Piastri Claims Qatar Sprint Pole as Title Race Tightens

Sports

Oscar Piastri secured pole position for the Sprint race at the Qatar Grand Prix, edging out George Russell and Lando Norris in a tense shootout under the lights at the Lusail International Circuit.

Piastri’s final lap time of 1:20.055 proved enough to lead the session. Russell delivered a strong performance to take second, only 0.032 seconds behind, while Norris, the championship leader coming into the weekend, will start the Sprint from third on the grid, 0.230 seconds off the pace.

Behind the front three, Fernando Alonso will start fourth, followed by Yuki Tsunoda in fifth and Max Verstappen in sixth. Verstappen struggled to find rhythm in the final moments of the session and could not mount a challenge for the front row.

The margins were incredibly tight throughout qualifying. Less than a third of a second separated the top six drivers, highlighting the intensity of competition and the high stakes as the season enters its closing stages. With only two rounds left, every position gained in the Sprint matters both for points and for momentum.

The championship fight remains finely balanced. Piastri’s pole is a significant boost to his title hopes, while Norris remains firmly in contention. Russell’s impressive form for Mercedes adds another threat to the mix. Verstappen, meanwhile, will need a strong Sprint performance to keep his hopes alive.

The Sprint race takes place tonight and is expected to play a major role in shaping the title battle as one of the closest seasons in recent years approaches its conclusion.