Qatar Grand Prix 2021 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Lewis Hamilton continued his late-season surge with a commanding victory at Formula 1's inaugural Qatar Grand Prix, cutting Max Verstappen's championship lead to just eight points with two races remaining. The seven-time champion's dominant performance at the Losail International Circuit demonstrated Mercedes' newfound pace advantage and set up a tense finale to the championship.

Starting from pole position, Hamilton controlled the race from lights to flag, managing his pace expertly while Verstappen struggled with front wing damage sustained on the opening lap after running over a kerb. The damage cost Verstappen crucial downforce and pace throughout the race, preventing him from challenging Hamilton. A bizarre incident saw Verstappen handed a five-place grid penalty for the next race after failing to respect double yellow flags in qualifying - a decision that sparked controversy when it emerged Max had initially been shown for penalty review rather than Valtteri Bottas, who committed the same infringement.

Fernando Alonso delivered a vintage performance to claim his first podium since 2014, finishing third for Alpine after Sergio Perez retired with damage. Verstappen salvaged second place and fastest lap, limiting the championship damage despite his compromised car. The result meant Hamilton had won three consecutive races heading into the final two events, completely reversing the momentum from Mexico. With Mercedes' straight-line speed advantage now apparent and Hamilton in imperious form, the championship had transformed from Verstappen's to lose into a genuine toss-up heading into the dramatic Saudi Arabian and Abu Dhabi finales.