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Friday, February 27, 2026 | Daily Newspaper published by GPPC Doha, Qatar.

Tag Results for "Grand Prix" (34 articles)

Gulf Times
Sport

Lusail International Circuit hosts fan and community programs ahead of Qatar Grand Prix

Lusail International Circuit (LIC) geared up for the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix, with preparations completed ahead of an exhilarating race weekend.On Thursday, F1 enthusiasts experienced the iconic Pit Lane Walk, offering them an immersive view of the teams' garages, pitstops and opportunities to interact with drivers and teams.**media[387103]**Additionally, with inclusivity and community engagement at the heart of LIC, an accessibility friendly pit lane walk in collaboration with Qatar Foundation also took place. This special session welcomed students (accompanied with chaperones and family members) from Warif Academy, Renad Academy, and Awsaj Academy, including children who have diverse abilities and additional learning needs.**media[387105]**Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton made a special appearance where children had the chance to meet him, ask questions and get their autograph. This once in a lifetime opportunity offered the students an enriching and engaging experience, allowing them to connect closely with one of the sport’s most iconic drivers while creating memorable moments that encouraged confidence, inclusivity, and a deeper understanding of the world of Formula 1.**media[387106]**The day progressed with the official F1 drivers' press conference, which featured insights from drivers including Oliver Bearman (Haas), Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes), Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls), Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari), Nico Hulkenberg (Kick Sauber) and Carlos Sainz (Williams Racing).**media[387107]**On Friday, Practice 1 and Sprint Qualifying will be held with Sprint Race and Qualifying scheduled for Saturday, and the main Grand Prix on Sunday under the iconic LIC lights. Adding to the excitement, the weekend's post-race concerts at the Lusail Live Stage will feature Seal on Friday, Cheb Khaled on Saturday, and Metallica on Sunday.**media[387104]**For those attending, the circuit gates open from 12pm to 10pm on Friday, with the fan forum being a favorite among attendees. Beginning in the afternoon, it allows fans to interact directly with F1 drivers. The Lusail Live Stage will light up with performances including Seal’s from 9pm, with gates opening at 8:30pm.**media[387101]**Ticket holders are reminded that complimentary Metro passes are available for redemption at the goldclub office at any Doha Metro station or selected Lusail Tram stations. The Doha Metro will operate extended hours from 9am to 1:30am on Friday, with complimentary shuttle services running from Lusail QNB Station to the circuit. For the latest updates and information, download the official LIC App or visit the official website at lcsc.qa.

Gulf Times
Sport

Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix: all eyes on Doha as McLaren's Norris edges closer to world championship title

Motorsport fans and enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting one of the most prominent events of the 2025 Formula 1 World Championship this weekend when the Lusail International Circuit hosts the Qatar Airways Formula 1 Grand Prix, the 23rd and penultimate round of the world championship, which could crown McLaren's Lando Norris with his first world title.The Qatar Grand Prix will officially begin its three-day event starting tomorrow with the participation of 20 of the best racing drivers in the world in 10 Formula 1 teams for a chance to win the title in the Sprint race on Saturday evening and the main race on Sunday evening.Doha promises to deliver an exceptional round in the world championship, especially since the results of the Qatar Grand Prix may determine the 2025 Formula 1 world champion.Qatar will host the Formula 1 championship for the third year in a row and for the fourth time in its history, the first of which took place in 2021, replacing Australia as it dealt with restrictions imposed to limit the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic at that time.Qatar officially entered the Formula 1 World Championship calendar for 10 consecutive years starting from 2023, as part of the partnership between Doha and Formula 1, under which Qatar has become an important annual venue for the world’s biggest motor racing event.This year’s Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix will be the fourth race held at the Lusail International Circuit, following the first in the 2021 season, the second in 2023, which marked the official start of the circuit’s inclusion in the international calendar, and in 2024.The first edition of the Qatar Grand Prix in 2021 saw Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton, seven-time world champion (2008, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020), crowned champion after outperforming his Red Bull rival Max Verstappen, four-time world champion (2021, 2022, 2023, 2024).In 2023, Verstappen came in first place at the Lusail International Circuit, securing his third world title. McLaren's Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris came in second and third, respectively.In 2024, Verstappen won the Qatar Grand Prix once again, edging past Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and Piastri, who came in second and third.The fourth edition of the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix will feature a particularly intense competition between 20 drivers representing 10 teams, especially between the top three: Norris, Piastri, and Verstappen.The battle for the World Drivers' Championship title will be fierce between the three drivers. Norris is currently leading with 390 points, whilst Piastri and Verstappen each have 366 points. Norris has a great chance of securing his first ever World Championship title at the Lusail International Circuit.Meanwhile, McLaren have already won the Constructors' Championship by a high margin of 756 points, 325 points clear of its closest rival Mercedes in second place with 431 points. Red Bull currently sits in third with 391 points.With 58 points still up for grabs in the penultimate Qatar (33 points) and final Abu Dhabi (25 points) rounds of the World Championship, Norris has a great chance of winning the title. He needs to win the Qatar Grand Prix and finish with a 26-point lead over his rivals in the overall standings to be officially crowned world champion for the 2025 season, regardless of the results of the final round.The Lusail International Circuit, which, after its redevelopment, has retained its famous 5.380 km (3.343 mi) track, is one of the world's most prominent circuits, especially as it is one of the few circuits in the world that hosts both the Formula 1 and MotoGP World Championships.By hosting the most prominent global events in motorsport, the Lusail Circuit has contributed to introducing technology to the sport and changing the history of motorsport culture. It has also changed the FIA's rules, from holding the championship with daytime rules to nighttime rules, after Qatar was the first country to hold a night race for MotoGP.The Lusail International Circuit is also one of the most prominent circuits that hosts a round of the Formula 1 World Championship under floodlights, in addition to five other races held in the circuits of Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Las Vegas, and Abu Dhabi.The distinctive role played by the circuit since its establishment in 2004 has made it a leader in circuit sports over the years by providing a great addition to motorsports, thanks to the support of officials and their keenness to provide all means to achieve success, which ultimately contributes to Qatar National Vision 2030.The Qatar Airways Formula 1 Grand Prix, which includes Formula 2 and the Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East, kicks off tomorrow, Friday. The race program will have official activities extending over three days, beginning Friday and continuing until the main race on Sunday, which will be held at 7 p.m. Doha time.Friday morning will feature free practice sessions where drivers will familiarize themselves with the circuit. It will begin with the first free practice session for the Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East, followed by the Formula 2 practice session, then the first Formula 1 practice session. After that, it will be followed once again by the second free practice session for the Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East, the Formula 2 qualifying session, and the Formula 1 sprint qualifying session. Press conferences will be held between these sessions.Starting on Saturday, the pressure will increase on the drivers, as the qualifying sessions for the Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East will take place, followed by the Formula 1 Sprint race at 5 p.m., the last of the season. This will be followed by the Formula 2 Sprint race at 7:20 p.m., with qualifying sessions taking place at 9 p.m. to determine the starting positions for the main race on Sunday. After that, the first main race of the Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East will take place, which will last for 11 laps or 25 minutes.On the final Sunday, participants are allowed to do a round of practice and warm-up, followed by the second main race of the Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East at 1:45 p.m., then the main Formula 2 race consisting of 32 laps or 60 minutes + 1 lap, at 3:00 p.m., after which the round concludes with the main Formula 1 race consisting of 57 laps or 120 minutes, which will start at 7:00 p.m. Doha time, to determine the champion of the Qatar Grand Prix, which constitutes the penultimate round of the World Championship.Last year, the Lusail International Circuit underwent a comprehensive development process to increase the grandstand capacity to 40,000 spectators, with the introduction of state-of-the-art facilities and buildings with world-class specifications. However, no modifications were made to the track itself, which retained its famous design, as it was only repaved and safety measures were provided.

With an in-form Max Verstappen breathing down his neck and chasing a fifth consecutive world championship, championship leader Lando Norris can afford few missteps at the Qatar Grand Prix this weekend.
Sport

Norris seeks reset in Qatar amid Verstappen surge

After a bruising Las Vegas Grand Prix, where Lando Norris lost the lead to Max Verstappen at the start and finished second before being disqualified for excessive skid-block wear, the championship leader is now looking forward to ‘warm weather, playing some golf and padel’ in Qatar.Norris’ hopes of stretching his advantage ahead of this weekend’s Qatar Grand Prix at the Lusail International Circuit, and the Abu Dhabi finale the week after, took a heavy hit when both he and McLaren team-mate Oscar Piastri were disqualified following post-race checks in Las Vegas. Despite the setback, Norris still tops the standings with a 24-point cushion over Piastri and Red Bull’s Verstappen. The title remains his to lose, but the Qatar weekend complicates matters with Sprint race points on offer this Saturday. A total of 58 points remain on the table: 25 each for Qatar and Abu Dhabi, plus eight for winning Saturday’s Sprint. Should Norris end the Qatar GP with a lead of 26 points or more over both Piastri and Verstappen, he will seal his maiden world championship. Even if he wins the Sprint and both rivals fail to score, Norris would move 32 clear with 50 still available. Over the weekend as a whole, simply outscoring both by two points would be enough for him to clinch the title.Before diving into the pressure of an action-packed weekend in Lusail, the McLaren driver wants to unwind in Qatar for couple of days. “I look forward to Qatar. I look forward to getting somewhere warm and just go play some golf, go play some padel for a few days, enjoy a few days off, and do everything we can to try and win in Qatar,” Norris said.However, with an in-form Verstappen breathing down his neck and chasing a fifth consecutive world championship, Norris can seldom take a breather. Since Verstappen’s victory in Austin last month, the Dutchman has slashed his deficit to the championship leader — then Piastri — by 64 points across four races. Averaging 12 points over Norris in the final two rounds is still a tall order for Verstappen, but his relentless form and Red Bull’s late-season resurgence mean the reigning champion will be ready to capitalise on any slip by – as he did in Las Vegas.Asked whether he would approach the race differently after surrendering the lead in Vegas, a moment rendered moot by the disqualification, Norris insisted he has no intention of going conservative. “I’ve never been in that position before, so I probably can’t really answer it,” he said.“But nothing feels different now, even though that is the opportunity I’m entering into. I treat it the same. I treat it like I want to go and win. I’ll do everything I can to try and win the race. It’s a lot more fun when you win than when you come second. My goal is to win both races to the end of the season, and the Sprint as well. So I’ll try and win all three. I just focus on having a few days off, shifting the time zone back, and then focusing on Free Practice 1,” he added.The high-speed Lusail Circuit, flowing through the desert on the outskirts of Doha, adds further intrigue to the title battle. Originally designed for motorcycle racing, the 5.419km track is dominated by medium- and high-speed corners and features a one-kilometre start-finish straight that provides the prime overtaking chance into Turn 1. Tyre management will be crucial, with Pirelli limiting each set to 25 laps due to the extreme load generated by the fast corners.For Verstappen, winner of both previous Qatar Grands Prix, Lusail presents an ideal opportunity to ramp up the pressure on Norris. But Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies warned that the grid should expect a complete “reset” after the unique conditions in Las Vegas.“You can’t imagine a more different situation in Qatar compared to Las Vegas. Everything is the opposite. We will reset and try to nail the weekend,” Mekies said.Verstappen’s win in Las Vegas was his sixth of the season and his fourth in the last seven races. Mekies believes the 28-year-old is performing at one of the highest levels ever seen in F1.“In terms of driving and what he does, I think he’s as good or better than everything we have seen,” he said. “There are many examples this year. We know we suffered in the first part of the season. The guys have done an amazing job turning around the car, and now that he’s able to fight again for the win, he produces masterclass after masterclass.”

Gulf Times
Sport

Qatar Grand Prix TV promo launch takes place at Souq Waqif

Lusail International Circuit (LIC) hosted the official Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix TV promo launch Tuesday during a reveal event held at its newly installed #QatarGP 360° Experience activation, at the Eastern Square in Souq Waqif. An exclusive first look of the new promotional film for the race was shown at the launch event.During the event, attendees had the opportunity to explore the #QatarGP 360° Experience. This installation allowed invitees to experience the 360° film environment for the first time, placing them right in the center of the action.The film “Where Hearts Are Racing”, is a cinematic journey exploring the timeless human pursuit of speed through the lens of Qatari heritage and culture. The film celebrates speed as a universal force that unites people across generations, bridging Qatar’s centuries-old traditions of camel racing, falconry, and equestrian mastery with the cutting-edge excitement of modern Formula 1.Through poetic narration and striking imagery, it draws a powerful connection between the grace and endurance of the past and the precision, innovation, and daring of today’s motorsport. By honoring these echoes of tradition while showcasing modern performance, the film reflects a shared human spirit: bold, connected, and always in motion, fueled by imagination, excellence, and the relentless drive to push boundaries.Fatima al-Qaedi, Marketing Manager at Lusail International Circuit said: “This promotional film beautifully captures Qatar’s deep-rooted passion for racing and speed through a contemporary cinematic lens, portraying the strong connection between Arab heritage and modernity, showcasing how speed has evolved from being a part of local culture into a universal language of ambition, determination, and excellence.The film comes as part of Lusail International Circuit’s preparations to host the Formula 1 Grand Prix, reaffirming its ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for fans and strengthening Qatar’s presence on the global sports stage.”The activation is now open for free to the public at Souq Waqif, welcoming visitors to experience the official F1 QatarGP TV promo launch through the #QatarGP 360° experience daily until November 30.It will be open from 3pm to 10pm from Sunday to Wednesday, and from 3pm to 12am on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Fans can also watch the film on LIC’s YouTube channel.The Qatar Grand Prix 2025 will take place at Lusail International Circuit from November 28 to 30. Limited tickets are available, and fans are encouraged to secure theirs quickly by visiting tickets.lcsc.qa.

Gulf Times
Sport

Lusail International Circuit brings the race to the city: Mall activation to engage fans

In the lead-up to the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2025, Lusail International Circuit (LIC) is set to bring the thrill of the race beyond the track with mall activations designed to engage fans of all ages. Motorsport enthusiasts across Doha will have the chance to experience the excitement of Formula 1 first hand through interactive and visually stunning installations.At Place Vendome Mall, ground floor by Paul Cafe, the Qatar GP Village will welcome visitors, from November 2 to 30, during mall operating hours with a variety of interactive experiences free of charge for kids and adults. Fans can test their racing skills in the VR Pit Stop Challenge, compete on F1 simulators, explore hologram boxes, solve racing-themed puzzles, design their own helmets via the “Build Your Helmet” app, and capture memories at dedicated photo booths. The Cheer Wall will allow visitors to celebrate the passion of Formula 1, creating a truly participatory fan experience.Fatima al-Qaedi, Marketing and Communications Manager at Lusail International Circuit, commented, “Our off-track activations are designed to bring the excitement of Formula 1 closer to fans across Doha. We aim to tap into different segments in our activation: education, art, technology, and fun as this is what F1 is all about, and we want to make sure that Doha, and everyone coming to Doha, celebrates this with us. With interactive and immersive racing experiences, these initiatives celebrate the passion for motorsport, making the countdown to the Grand Prix an unforgettable experience for everyone.”Tickets for the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix 2025 continue to sell rapidly. Fans can still secure limited grandstand and hospitality packages in addition to single day tickets for Friday and Saturday. Friday tickets offer a chance to enjoy opening festivities and the vibrant Fan Zone starred by the iconic British singer, Seal’s performance, while Saturday provides the exclusive Sprint Race with the F2 as support races, and the full 3-day experience promises nonstop racing, entertainment, and fan activities. Tickets can be purchased via Lusail International Circuit’s website at tickets.lcsc.qa.With city and mall activations even running through race weekend, LIC has invited fans to immerse themselves in the world of Formula 1 and experience the thrill, technology, and culture that defines the Qatar Grand Prix.


Estelle Poret
Sport

Drange, Reiterer and Hawair earn Moto2 victories in Qatar

The second of the Ski Ladies GP1, Ski Division GP1 and Runabout GP2 Asian Continental Championship Motos and the first of the Runabout GP1 Motos for the Old Doha Port Grand Prix of Qatar were held in punishing heat Friday afternoon. A flying Benedicte Drange stormed through the Ski Ladies GP1 field to snatch a vital victory in the second of the Motos. But second-placed Estelle Poret heads into the final heat Saturday with a 15-point lead in the World Championship over defending champion Jasmiin Ypraus. Drange said: “In Moto 1, I had the lead and then my fuel pump broke. I was full speed on the stretch and it broke. I did not finish and it was a heartbreak because I was going for a title. I thought to myself, I will start as nine or 10 in Moto 2 and the championship is not on the line anymore. I needed to bring back my joy of racing. When I had a championship, it was too much pressure. I don’t enjoy it. I went out had fun, did the best I could and had a brilliant start. I swept past half the field and passed Jasmiin on the first lap. Then I took Estelle and Jessica (Chavanne). It was probably the best race I have done in my career. I am super happy and dedicate this victory to my team and my mechanics.” Veteran Kevin Reiterer stormed through to earn Moto 2 success in Ski GP1 after pole-sitter and Moto 1 winner Quinten Bossche shut down on the opening lap and was later disqualified for a course infringement. Third place for Denmark’s Oliver Koch Hansen gave him an 18-point lead over Jéremy Poret to take into the final Mototoday. Reiterer said: “This morning I thought it was going to be easier than Friday but it was up and down like crazy. We had rollers coming in from boats that we weren’t expecting on the straights. We were just taking off. It was really rough, one of the roughest and hardest Motos I have ever done. I got off to an okay start and then Quinten’s boat shut off and he fell back. I tried to pace myself, save some energy and put in some good laps if there was a fight later. Five to seven seconds was a good gap so that you don’t have to worry in the splits.” François Medori headed into the opening Runabout GP1 Moto with a 16-point World Championship advantage over Jeremy Perez but engine issues sidelined the Corsican after he had passed Yousef al-Abdulrazzaq to take the Moto lead. The Kuwaiti regained the advantage to win the Moto only to lose out to Perez near the finish. The Frenchman now takes a nine-point lead over Medori into the final Moto. Triumphant Perez said: “I feel really good. It was a really difficult race. I push and push and György passed me and I passed him again on the last corner. I am happy to win. François was faster than me but we will see. The strategy now will be to get a good start in Moto 2 and try to push and not to lose places. I know that I need to finish four or five so I will manage my race.” Emirati Amer Hawair clinched a lights-to flag second victory in the Runabout GP2 category to put him in a strong position to seal the title at the final race Saturday. Drange flies to Ski Ladies GP1 Moto 2 successMoto 1 winner Estelle Poret knew that a top finish would put her in a superb position to claim the world title on Saturday. She lined up on pole ahead of Naomi Benini, Jasmiin Ypraus, Jessica Chavanne, River Varner and Virginie Morlaes. The cruel engine problem in Moto 1 had pushed title contender Benedicte Drange to the rear of the 10-boat field. Chavanne stormed through to get the hole shot and took the outside split ahead of Poret, Varner, Drange, Ypraus, Benini, Morlaes, Sofie Borgström, Emy Garcia and Janina Johansson. Chavanne maintained her lead through the opening lap but Drange managed to pass Poret and take second position, although, as long as Poret finished the two remaining Motos, Drange was helpless in her quest for the title. Drange then overhauled Chavanne on the second lap and began to edge clear, as Varner managed to overhaul a subdued Ypraus to take fifth. Garcia climbed to seventh at the expense of a struggling Morlaes. Ypraus regained fifth and Garcia moved into sixth with Varner dropping back to seventh heading into lap four. Drange held on to nail the Moto win by 2.398 seconds and picked up 25 invaluable championship points. Poret passed Chavanne to finish second and a resurgent Ypraus snatched third from Chavanne to finish ahead of Benini, Garcia, Varner, Morlaes and Borgström. Varner then incurred a two-lap penalty for course cutting and Benini was docked 40 seconds for lane indiscipline. Benini finished fifth ahead of Morlaes, Borgström and Varner. Moto 2 success in Ski GP1 for Reiterer World champion Quinten Bossche had controlled Moto 1 in the morning and his rewards was pole for Moto 2. He lined up omn the start pontoon ahead of championship leader Oliver Koch Hansen, Jéremy Poret, Kevin Reiterer, Toshi O’Hara, Valentin Dardillat, Morgan Poret, Anthony Beernaut, Alex Barret and Matteo Benini. Poret snatched the hole shot from Reiterer, O’Hara, Koch Hansen and Beernaut after Bossche took a tumble and lost valuable ground on his rivals. He found himself down in 17th of the 19th riders and was faced with another fight back from the rest of the field. Morgan Poret was a non-starter. Reiterer then snatched the lead from Poret and O’Hara but Bossche made another mistake and lost all his momentum. By lap three, Reiterer led from O’Hara, Poret, Koch Hansen and young Yoni Hamelin. Bossche was disqualified for rising in the wrong direction to cap another disastrous Moto for the current champion. Reiterer held on to take the victory by 14.999 seconds from O’Hara and Koch Hansen, who closed in on the world title with 20 precious championship points. His closest title rival Jéremy Poret eventually finished sixth behind Dardillat and the impressive Benjamin Scharff. Beernaut, Matteo Benini, Alex Barret and Ander-Hubert Lauri rounded off the top 10. Perez takes opening Runabout GP1 Moto win after Medori and al-Abdulrazzaq retire Only six of the 23 Runabout GP1 entrants had turned out for the morning’s second free practice with the remaining riders persevering their skis for the opening Moto. Multiple former champion Yousef al-Abdulrazzaq lined up on pole position ahead of series leader François Medori, Jéremy Perez, György Kasza and the high-flying Khalifa Belselah. The Kuwaiti earned the hole shot to stay ahead of Medori, Belselah, Perez, Kasza, Andrzej Wisniewski and Ruben Jimenez Riquelme. Egidijus Kirilevicius and Robin Laforge were non-starters. Al-Abdulrazzaq continued to fend off Medori and actually increased his advantage to over three seconds heading into lap three. Medori was also watchful of his title push. With 15 minutes of the race to run, al-Abdulrazzaq led Medori by just over two seconds with Belselah, Kasza and Perez in the top five. Kasza and Perez then passed the Emirati, who plummeted out of contention and retired on lap five. Linus Lindberg climbed to fifth ahead of Qatar’s Waleed al-Sharshani and Wisniewski with 11 minutes on the clock. Medori snatched the lead on lap eight bur then the Frenchman stuttered to a halt with engine issues and al-Abdulrazzaq regained the lead. The Corsican’s demise threw the title race wide open with Kasza and new virtual championship leader Perez in third. Second successive Asian Runabout GP2 victory for Amer Hawair Emirati Amer Hawair took full advantage of pole position for winning Moto 1. He claimed the hole shot from Qatar’s Mahmoud and Mohamed Abumaali with Saudi Arabia’s Daoud Kaloti holding fourth ahead of Khalaf al-Kuwari and Khalid al-Maazmi at the start of the second Runabout GP2 Asian Continental Moto. Hawair began to pull clear of his rivals and was over six seconds to the good through lap two with the pursuing quintet holding their positions. Kaloti managed to pass Mohamed Abumaali and snatch third place, as Mahmoud Abumaali began to apply the pressure on the leading Emirati. Kaloti managed to pass Mahmoud Abumaali in the closing minutes as well to seal second place, albeit 3.837 seconds behind the triumphant Emirati. Mahmoud Abumaali rounded off the podium positions from al-Maazmi, al-Kuwari and Mohamed Abumaali.

The Qatar Grand Prix promises non-stop on track action with the Formula 1 Sprint Race, FIA Formula 2 Championship, and Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East.
Sport

Lusail International Circuit marks 30 days for F1 Qatar Grand Prix

With just one month to go until the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2025, Lusail International Circuit (LIC) has unveiled new details of its reimagined Fan Zone and the daily on-site entertainment program, marking another milestone in the countdown to one of the most anticipated weekends in Qatar’s sporting calendar.From November 28 to 30, LIC will welcome fans for a weekend that blends world class racing, family entertainment, culture, and innovation, creating a festival atmosphere that celebrates both Qatar’s spirit and the thrill of Formula 1.A Weekend of Racing and EntertainmentThe 2025 edition promises non-stop on track action with the Formula 1 Sprint Race, FIA Formula 2 Championship, and Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East. Off the track, the excitement continues with performances by global icons like Seal on Family Friday and Metallica headlining Race Day Sunday.A Reimagined Fan Zone ExperienceAt the heart of the event, the Fan Zone will feature a dynamic lineup of experiences designed to delight visitors of all ages. From immersive activities to educational installations and family entertainment, every corner of the Fan Zone offers something new to discover.Highlights includeLEGO “Build The Thrill” Experience: Making its Middle East debut, LEGO brings its celebrated Formula 1 activation to Qatar as part of the Project Alicia global tour. Fans can build their own mini LEGO F1 cars, explore a LEGO themed pitlane and garage, and take home their creation in exclusive Qatar Grand Prix packaging.F1 Fan Forum: Fans can also look forward to the F1 Fan Forum, taking place on Friday and Saturday, where they can interact directly with drivers, ask questions, and hear exclusive insights.Kart Arena: A high adrenaline electric karting experience inspired by the Lusail International Circuit layout, where guests can race through a custom designed track.Genius Dome: An interactive zone combining science and motorsport, where visitors can explore aerodynamics, engineering, and race strategy through hands-on challenges.AR Car Racing & Racing Container: Interactive simulators and augmented reality experiences that let fans take the wheel and capture their moment on the podium at the F1 Photo Booth.Arcade Zone: Featuring racing simulators, PlayStation consoles, and reflex challenges for competitive fun.Cultural Area: A celebration of Qatari heritage with traditional crafts and performances. Across three tents, visitors can experience Arabic coffee, henna art, calligraphy, dama games, and rotating cultural demonstrations including dhow crafts, Sadu weaving, pearls, and spice displays.Kids Corner: Creative and eco friendly activities for younger visitors, including sand art bottling, recycled art, floor painting, face painting, and wind powered car making.Recycled art mural & oversized words: Guests can contribute to large-scale collaborative artworks using recycled materials, and share their messages on oversized word installations across the Fan Zone.Family Friday and Sprint SaturdayFriday, 28 November offers a full day of fun for all ages, featuring the LEGO® activation, children’s zones, and Seal’s live performance in the evening. General Admission ticket holders can bring up to four children under 12 for free, making it the perfect family day out.Saturday, 29 November showcases high speed competition with the Formula 1® Sprint Race, FIA Formula 2, and Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East, alongside continued entertainment and fan activities across the venue.Sunday, 30 November culminates in the highly anticipated FORMULA 1® QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2025 and a powerful closing concert by Metallica, promising an unforgettable finale to the weekend.Tickets Still AvailableWith record demand this year, tickets for the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2025 are selling fast. Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets from the limited remaining three-day Grandstand passes, hospitality packages, and single day tickets for Friday and Saturday. Tickets can be purchased via Lusail International Circuit’s website at tickets.lcsc.qa.

Gulf Times
Sport

Tickets now on sale for 2026 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar

The tickets for the 2026 MotoGP Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar taking place at Lusail International Circuit (LIC), from April 10 to April 12, 2026, are now available. The Grand Prix of Qatar promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for motorsport enthusiasts.Constructed in 2004, LIC made its debut that same year by hosting the first ever Qatar Grand Prix, marking the country’s entry into the MotoGP World Championship. Since 2008, the Qatar Grand Prix has established itself as one of the most visually appealing events on the MotoGP calendar with its unique night time racing format. To this day, it remains the only venue on the calendar to host night races. The combination of cutting edge facilities and the iconic illumination of LIC creates an unparalleled spectacle that has become a hallmark of the championship.The 2026 MotoGP season is set to deliver another thrilling chapter, with the grid now fully confirmed after one of the most unpredictable contract periods in recent years, where Diogo Moreira was announced to join Honda LCR, completing an exciting line up of 22 riders.With Ducati’s powerhouse pairing of Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez locked in, and rising stars like Pedro Acosta and Fermin Aldeguer ready to impress, the 2026 MotoGP grid blends proven champions with exciting new contenders. As anticipation builds for pre-season testing, fans can look forward to another year of fierce competition and unforgettable racing under the lights of Lusail.Ticket InformationFans can purchase tickets through LIC'S official website. For just QR200, a three-day ticket grants access to:• Free seating in the Main Grandstand and Lusail Hill (Turn 1 elevated viewing area)• Fan Zone with entertainment and activities for all ages.• MotoGP merchandising and other retail outlets.• Easy access to free parking and taxi pick up and drop off zone.• As a special bonus, motorsport enthusiasts who purchase tickets for the 2026 MotoGP™ Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar will also receive a 25% discount on tickets for the Qatar 1812 KM - FIA World Endurance Championship.• Wheelchair ticket holders are entitled to one free companion ticket (contact [email protected])Fans can book a maximum of 6 child tickets (free of charge for under 12 years of age) when accompanied by 1 adult purchasing a full price ticket.Event scheduleFriday, April 10, 2026: Free practice.Saturday, April 11, 2026: Qualifying for all teams and Sprint race.Sunday, April 12, 2026: Motogp Qatar Airways Grand Prix of QatarThe Qatar Grand Prix will showcase the world’s top riders competing on the 5.38 kilometer track. This world class venue features a flowing layout with a mix of medium and high speed corners, a main straight over one kilometer in length.Details on Hero walks, hospitality packages, and Fan Zone activations will be available on LIC’sofficial website and social media channels. For corporate and group requests, contact [email protected].

Max Verstappen of the Netherlands driving the (1) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB21 on track during the F1 Grand Prix of United States at Circuit of The Americas on Sunday in Austin, Texas. AFP
Sport

Verstappen cruises to win, cuts chunk out of F1 lead

Max Verstappen maintained the pressure on McLaren and cut another chunk out of Oscar Piastri's lead in this year's world championship on Sunday when he cruised to a commanding triumph at the United States Grand Prix.In sizzling conditions, Red Bull's four-time world champion led from pole position to chequered flag to come home 7.959 seconds clear of title-chasing Lando Norris, of McLaren, with Ferrari's Charles Leclerc finishing third, 4.041 adrift.Australian championship leader Oscar Piastri of McLaren finished fifth.It was Verstappen's fourth win in Texas and seventh on American soil, his fifth this year and the 68th of his career.It was also, for Verstappen, the fourth race in succession in which he had out-qualified and out-raced both McLarens.Verstappen has reduced Piastri's 104 point advantage over him to 40 with five races remaining.Seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton was fourth in the second Ferrari ahead of Piastri and Mercedes's George Russell.Verstappen said: "It's been an unbelievable weekend for us. I knew it wouldn't be straightforward and the pace between us was close. But my first stint did it for me."Now we have a chance to be there (in the title race) and we just have to keep delivering like that in all the weekends to the end of the season and see what happens. It's exciting. We just need to keep up the momentum."Norris was relieved to snatch second place after spending most of the race pushing to overtake Leclerc."It took me long enough! It was a good battle with Charles, he fought hard. It was tough... But I'm happy to take second."Verstappen now has 306 points in the title race in third place leaving Piastri on top with 346 points and Norris on 332. McLaren have already won the constructors' title for the second consecutive year.The 28-year-old Dutchman has now collected 119 points from a possible 135 over the last five Grand Prix weekends.Norris passes Leclerc, twiceOn another day of searing heat in Texas, with temperatures of 30C -- and 44C on the track -- making it a 'heat hazard' race, Verstappen made a clean start to lead up the hill into the opening sequence of turns with Leclerc, the only top ten driver on softs, passing Norris for second.Hamilton and Piastri also advanced to fourth and fifth after a poor start from Russell, all of them on mediums as Norris and Hamilton chased Leclerc in the opening laps. That battle gave Verstappen a clear run and he was three seconds ahead by lap four.Having won Saturday's sprint to trim Piastri's championship advantage to 55 points, the Dutchman was revelling in his form and the role of hunter as McLaren's supremacy evaporated.By lap 10, Verstappen led Leclerc by 3.3 seconds with Norris third, 1.4 adrift and Hamilton fourth, 1.9 behind him. Piastri was fifth, 3.2 seconds back.For McLaren, it was shaping up as a nightmare for team boss Zak Brown who feared "that Max guy getting in the middle of our fun".Leclerc's softs were failing by lap 15 and Norris attacked, but the Monegasque defended and a frustrated Norris collected three warnings for exceeding track limits before he passed him on lap 21.But after a flurry of pit-stops, Verstappen emerged six seconds clear of Leclerc with Norris, back down in third again.What seemed to be a pedestrian contest came to life in the final six laps when Norris attacked Leclerc, who was struggling on his worn mediums, and, after several attempts, dived past him at Turn One on lap 52.That helped Norris trim Piastri's championship lead to just 14 points.

Gulf Times
Sport

Lusail International Circuit opens volunteer applications for Qatar Grand Prix 2025

Lusail International Circuit (LIC) has officially opened volunteer registrations for the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2025, set to take place from November 28 to 30, 2025. From October 12 until 25, 2025, nationals and residents aged 18 and above are invited to apply for a chance to be part of Qatar’s most anticipated international sporting event of 2025.Building on the success of last year’s volunteer program — which saw more than 600 participants from 40 nationalities, with a split of 55% male and 45% female volunteers, including 210 students contributing across key operational areas.This year’s edition promises to be even larger and more engaging, offering a range of exciting roles and first-hand experience behind the scenes of Formula 1.Volunteers will have the opportunity to work across several essential departments, including Events, Marketing, Communication, Ticketing, Sustainability, Fanzone and more, supporting the seamless delivery of the race weekend. Each volunteer will receive specialized training and on-ground experience, gaining unique insights into event management, motorsport operations, and large-scale hospitality.The initiative reflects LIC’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and local empowerment, providing nationals and residents with a chance to contribute directly to Qatar’s growing motorsport landscape. Through the volunteer program, LIC continues to foster national talent, promote inclusivity, and strengthen the circuit’s position as a self-sustaining venue driven by the passion and participation of the community.Applicants can register through the official volunteer sign-up link (https://events.lcsc.qa/volunteer/public/register). Selected volunteers will be contacted after the closing date for onboarding and training sessions.The Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2025 is set to offer hundreds of volunteers an unforgettable weekend filled with racing, entertainment, learning, and culture; presenting an opportunity to be part of something truly special.

Gulf Times
Sport

Metallica to perform at this year’s Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix  

As excitement builds ahead of the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2025, Lusail International Circuit (LIC) has announce that globally acclaimed rock band Metallica will light up the Lusail Live stage on Sunday, November 30. Metallica’s headline show promises to deliver an unforgettable night for fans, combining world-class entertainment off-track with world-class racing on track. Formed in 1981 by vocalist/guitarist James Hetfield and drummer Lars Ulrich and including guitarist Kirk Hammett and bassist Robert Trujillo, Metallica has become one of the most influential and successful rock bands in history, selling nearly 125mn albums worldwide and generating more than 17bn streams while playing to millions of fans on all seven continents — more than 1.3mn of whom belong to the band’s fiercely loyal and consistently growing Fifth Member fan club. Metallica’s catalog of multi-platinum studio albums includes Kill ’Em All, Ride the Lightning, Master of Puppets, ...And Justice for All, Metallica (commonly referred to as The Black Album), Load, ReLoad, St. Anger, Death Magnetic, Hardwired...To Self-Destruct, and most recently, the Grammy-winning 72 Seasons, released April 14, 2023, on the band’s own Blackened Recordings label. Metallica’s awards and accolades include nine Grammy Awards, two American Music Awards, multiple MTV Video Music Awards, a 2009 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and Sweden’s Polar Music Prize. In 2017, Metallica established its own charitable foundation, All Within My Hands, to give back to communities that have supported the band. To date, All Within My Hands’ collective efforts have raised nearly $20mn since inception, including $11.4mn in grants to workforce education, $7.4mn to fight hunger globally, and $5.2mn donated to critical local services around the world. 100% of donations go directly to local organisations that the Foundation supports. As always, Metallica covers all administrative costs. In build up to the electrifying concert, Sunday at the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix will showcase the FIA Formula 2 feature race, followed by the highlight of the weekend, the Grand Prix. Additionally, fans attending the Qatar Grand Prix, can catch Metallica live on Sunday night with a single-day Sunday General Admission ticket priced at QR500. Three-Day Grandstand tickets are also available in the North Grandstand (QR1,500), Turn 2 Grandstand (QR1,000), Turn 3 Grandstand (QR1,000; student price QR800), and the Turn 16 Grandstand (QR1,000; senior citizen price QR750). Access to Metallica’s performance is included with all ticket types. As tickets are selling fast for Qatar’s biggest motorsport and entertainment event, fans can secure their spot by visiting tickets.lcsc.qa.

BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP’s Fermin Aldeguer celebrates on the podium after winning the Indonesian Grand Prix at Mandalika International Street Circuit Sunday. AFP
Sport

MotoGP champion Marquez suffers collarbone injury in Indonesian GP crash

Ducati’s MotoGP champion Marc Marquez suffered a collarbone injury as a result of a collision with Aprilia’s Marco Bezzecchi on the opening lap of the Indonesian Grand Prix Sunday, his team said.Bezzecchi collided with the rear of Marquez’s Ducati and the pair both hurtled into the gravel at high speed, with Marquez appearing to be in significant discomfort after tumbling head over heels.The Spaniard, who won his seventh MotoGP championship at last week’s Japanese Grand Prix, was hunched over on the side of the track for a couple of minutes before staggering to his feet and lurching away while clutching his shoulder.EVIDENCE OF FRACTUREMarquez was later seen with his arm in a sling, with members of Ducati team saying on the race’s broadcast that there was evidence of a fracture after initial scans.“As a result of today’s crash at Indonesian GP, Marc Marquez has suffered an injury to his right collarbone,” Ducati said in a statement on social media.“The Spanish rider will travel tonight to Madrid (Spain) for further medical tests and to decide on the treatment to follow.”The injury was on the shoulder of the arm Marquez fractured in the 2020 July season-opening Spanish Grand Prix in Jerez, which ruled him out for an extended period and required several surgeries.“Not the best way to celebrate the championship,” Marquez told reporters after the race.“In the end, Marco Bezzecchi already came to me and said sorry. This happens. It’s something that sometimes I will do, sometimes somebody else will do, but it was not on purpose. So, Marco accepts it was his fault.“We will fly to Madrid and try to understand with the doctors exactly what is wrong and try to come back as soon as possible.”BEZZECCHI ESCAPES MAJOR INJURYAprilia said Bezzecchi was taken to hospital to undergo a more comprehensive examination following the crash where he was given the all-clear.“After the medical examinations, no fractures have been found for Marco Bezzecchi,” Aprilia said in a statement.Marquez’s Ducati team-mate Francesco Bagnaia, Joan Mir (Honda HRC) and Enea Bastianini (Red Bull KTM Tech3) also crashed out of Sunday’s race, won by Gresini Racing rookie Fermin Aldeguer.Ducati-Gresini rider Aldeguer pulled away and cruised to a maiden victory.Aldeguer finished more than six seconds ahead of KTM’s Pedro Acosta in second and nearly eight seconds in front of teammate Alex Marquez in third.“I don’t believe it. I am super happy. To be a rookie, we are doing incredible work. We have to continue like this,” said Aldeguer, 20, who secured his first MotoGP win Sunday.While Marquez can afford to miss the last four rounds of the season having already sealed the title, Bezzecchi still has the opportunity to finish third overall ahead of Francesco Bagnaia and possibly fight with Alex Marquez for second.Alex sits on 362 points while Bagnaia (274) is third, just 20 points ahead of Bezzecchi in the standings.The next race is the Australian Grand Prix in two weeks.