Qatar Grand Prix: Leclerc Leads Free Practice

Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) set the fastest time during free practice at the Qatar Grand Prix, the penultimate round of the Formula 1 World Championship, held at Lusail International Circuit on Friday.

Leclerc edged out McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, while his Ferrari teammate Carlos Sainz posted the fourth-best time.

McLaren has faced a recent decline, narrowing their lead over Ferrari in the Constructors’ Championship to 51 points. With only 24 points separating McLaren from Ferrari, the final two rounds, offering 60 points in total, could prove decisive.

Dutch driver Max Verstappen, who recently secured his fourth consecutive World Championship, finished 11th in the session, while his Red Bull teammate Sergio Pérez was 18th.

The battle for Constructors’ positions remains critical, as moving up the standings translates to additional financial rewards, reportedly up to €10 million per position.

The Qatar Grand Prix also features a sprint race, adding further intrigue to the Constructors’ battle between Ferrari and McLaren.