Norris Pips Piastri for Sprint Pole in Qatar

Oscar Piastri secured pole position for the sprint race at the Qatar Grand Prix, out-qualifying McLaren teammate Lando Norris, who will start third. Norris faces a strong challenge from Piastri and Max Verstappen in the championship fight. Verstappen, tied on points with his rivals, could only manage sixth place on the grid for the sprint race.

Despite a challenging qualifying session that saw him complain about car bouncing and even get outpaced by his teammate Yuki Tsunoda, Verstappen remains in contention. Norris cannot clinch his first world title after the sprint race but has an opportunity to do so in the grand prix on Sunday if he gains enough points on his rivals.

Fernando Alonso impressed by securing fourth on the grid for Aston Martin, a notable performance for the team. The sprint race awards points from eight down to one, adding another layer of excitement to the weekend's events as the championship battle intensifies.