Max Verstappen’s win in Qatar kept the 2025 F1 title fight alive and turned a strong McLaren weekend into a missed opportunity. Several drivers and teams left Lusail with momentum, while others lost points and confidence at a critical stage of the season.
Red Bull has admitted that comments made during and after the Qatar Grand Prix about Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli were wrong and says it regrets the wave of online abuse that followed. Replay footage confirmed that Antonelli briefly lost control before Lando Norris passed him for fourth, rather than moving aside on purpose.
McLaren fears that tyre durability issues seen at the Qatar Grand Prix could influence the title fight, with sharp gravel, rising pressures and unexpected vibrations creating unpredictable race conditions.
Stroll Shuts Down Horner-to-Aston-Martin Rumours as Internal Restructuring Fuels Paddock Speculation
Aston Martin owner Lawrence Stroll has denied reports linking Christian Horner to a senior role at the team, even as the organisation’s new structure raises questions about unfilled leadership positions.
Max Verstappen qualified third in Qatar and says McLaren’s speed is so strong that matching their pace would require “a shortcut.” He must finish ahead of Lando Norris to keep the title race alive.
Pirelli has identified deep structural cracks across multiple tyres at Losail, prompting stricter monitoring as gravel-related damage increases the risk of punctures during the sprint and main race.
Four cars drop to the pit lane, Tsunoda starts ahead of Verstappen, and teams lean toward a medium-tyre sprint as clear skies set the tone for the night race.
Oscar Piastri won the Qatar sprint with ease, reducing his deficit to Lando Norris while Yuki Tsunoda supported Max Verstappen on lap one, took a penalty, and still secured fifth.












