The Qatar Grand Prix takes place from 27 to 29 November 2026 at the Losail International Circuit in Lusail, forming round 23 of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship. As the penultimate race of the season, the Qatar Grand Prix frequently plays a decisive role in the championship battle, with the desert floodlights providing a dramatic backdrop to the late-season action.
What is the Qatar Grand Prix?
The Qatar Grand Prix is Formula 1’s annual race in Qatar, held at the Losail International Circuit just north of Doha. The 5.38km circuit features 16 turns and a 1.068km main straight that produces high-speed slipstreaming battles into Turn 1. Originally built for motorcycle racing and a regular host of MotoGP since 2004, the circuit was adapted for Formula 1 in 2021 and underwent further upgrades ahead of its return to the calendar in 2023. The race takes place in the early evening, transitioning from daylight into darkness under the circuit’s permanent floodlighting system.
When is the Qatar Grand Prix?
The 2026 Qatar Grand Prix weekend runs from Friday 27 November to Sunday 29 November. Practice sessions are scheduled for Friday, with qualifying on Saturday and the race on Sunday. The race start time is 19:00 local time (AST), which is 16:00 GMT, 11:00 ET, and 00:00 JST (Monday).
Where is the Qatar Grand Prix?
The Losail International Circuit is located in the city of Lusail, approximately 30km north of the Qatari capital Doha. The venue features modern facilities including a large permanent grandstand complex and extensive hospitality areas. Hamad International Airport in Doha is the main point of entry for international visitors, with good transport links to the circuit. The Lusail area has also been developed significantly in recent years as part of Qatar’s broader infrastructure programme.
Key Contenders
Max Verstappen has dominated this race in recent years, winning in 2023, 2024, and 2025 to make it three consecutive victories at Losail. The circuit’s long straight and high-speed corners have suited the Red Bull package, though the 2026 regulation changes could alter the competitive picture significantly. Mercedes, led by George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, have been the team to beat in the early part of the 2026 season. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, who won the inaugural 2021 race, will also be strong contenders. Lando Norris and McLaren will be determined to challenge as the season approaches its conclusion.
How to Watch the Qatar Grand Prix
In the United States, all sessions are broadcast exclusively on Apple TV. In the United Kingdom, Sky Sports F1 carries live coverage of every session. beIN Sports holds rights across the Middle East and North Africa region. Canal+ covers the race in France, while Sky Italia and DAZN provide coverage in Italy and Spain respectively. F1 TV Pro is available in select international markets, offering live streaming with multiple on-board cameras and real-time data feeds.
History and Records
The Qatar Grand Prix first appeared on the F1 calendar in 2021, with Lewis Hamilton winning the inaugural race ahead of Max Verstappen. The event was not held in 2022 due to Qatar’s hosting of the FIFA World Cup. Since returning to the calendar in 2023, Max Verstappen has won every edition, taking victories in 2023, 2024, and 2025. The 2025 race was particularly significant as Verstappen’s win set up a three-way championship battle heading into the final round in Abu Dhabi. The race lap record stands at 1:22.384, set by Lando Norris in 2024. The qualifying record is 1:19.387, set by Oscar Piastri in 2025.
Tickets and Attendance
Tickets for the 2026 Qatar Grand Prix are available through the official Qatar Grand Prix website and authorised ticket partners including F1 Experiences. Options range from general admission to grandstand seating and premium hospitality packages. The Lusail circuit offers modern spectator facilities with clear sightlines around much of the track. The floodlit evening race creates a unique atmosphere that distinguishes the Qatar Grand Prix from most other events on the calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Qatar Grand Prix start?
The 2026 Qatar Grand Prix weekend runs from 27 to 29 November, with the race on Sunday 29 November at 19:00 local time.
Where is the Qatar Grand Prix held?
The race takes place at the Losail International Circuit in Lusail, Qatar, approximately 30km north of Doha.
How can I watch the Qatar Grand Prix?
In the US, the race is exclusively on Apple TV. In the UK, it is live on Sky Sports F1. beIN Sports covers the Middle East. F1 TV Pro is available in many international markets.
Who won the Qatar Grand Prix last year?
Max Verstappen won the 2025 Qatar Grand Prix for Red Bull, ahead of Oscar Piastri and Carlos Sainz.