FRIDAY DEBRIEF: How it's shaping up after Qatar GP qualifying with Verstappen looking every inch a champion

F1 Correspondent & PresenterLawrence Barretto
LUSAIL CITY, QATAR - OCTOBER 06: Pole position qualifier Max Verstappen of the Netherlands andLUSAIL CITY, QATAR - OCTOBER 06: Pole position qualifier Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing celebrates in parc ferme during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Qatar at Lusail International Circuit on October 06, 2023 in Lusail City, Qatar. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)

Strong winds – which frequently changed direction – combined with a sand-sodden track that has been freshly resurfaced for this year’s returning Qatar Grand Prix, and just one single practice session to prepare for qualifying, made life challenging for Formula 1’s 10 teams on Friday at the Lusail International Circuit.

Here’s how things are shaping up ahead Saturday’s Sprint Shoot-out and Sprint as well as Sunday’s Grand Prix.