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Introduction

The author will be here shortly to take you through today's sprint race (14:00 GMT) and grid-setting session (18:00 GMT).

Real-Time Updates

Warm-Up Lap Period

The starting lap is underway.

Circuit Details

There are nineteen laps around the lengthiest track in Formula 1, the commentator points out.

Final Moments

The countdown is underway.

Racer Positions

One point in Max Verstappen's advantage: his teammate Yuki Tsunoda is in front of him by one place. It's improbable to challenge Red Bull's lead driver.

Media Conversations

Sky interviewing Sky now: Gary Neville is at the Mercedes team.

The analyst is jumping ahead to the 2026 season, speaking with Adrian Newey about his promotion to the team team principal.

Grid Details

There are only sixteen vehicles on the grid. It was another poor grid-setting session for the driver: following his result of 20th and last in Las Vegas, leading to an eighth position in the main race, he did not manage to advance of Q1 once more on the previous day. Ferrari have consequently adjusted to his car configuration and so he will start from the pit lane.

Aston Martin's Stroll and the Alpine duo of Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto are all doing likewise.

Racer Statements

"We take the experience for the next day," states Isack Hadjar, starting eleventh. Expect plenty of learning.

Constructors' Championship

The focus isn't solely on the individual championship: McLaren have dominated the constructors' gong but Mercedes, with a forty-point advantage over their rivals, are aiming to seal second place during this event. George Russell can help them achieve that from second place, and Kimi Antonelli will start just behind Verstappen.

Past Performance

Oscar Piastri was victorious then – as he did the previous season, too. The driver from McLaren is attempting a third consecutive win.

Short Race Importance

Alright, just over twenty minutes to go until the short race begins. Unless something goes wrong, it's greatest value is as a preview of what is to come, instead of highly important in its own right, with only eight points available to the victor. Mind you, the runner-up spot here was enough for Verstappen to become champion two years ago.

The driver claimed the championship after Pérez crashes out of the short race.