The 2024 Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix kicked off in thrilling style at the Lusail International Circuit (LIC) on November 29, setting new benchmarks in motorsport performance. The day featured a packed schedule, including the Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East, F1 Academy, and FIA Formula 2 Championship practice sessions, leading up to a record-breaking Sprint qualifying session.
In the first Formula 1 practice session, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc set the pace with a fast lap time of 1:21.953, marking a significant leap in performance across the grid. All top 16 drivers surpassed last year’s pole position time of 1:23.778, showcasing the impressive development of the cars. The session also saw the top four drivers break the previous lap record, with Haas’ Kevin Magnussen posting a time of 1:23.715 — faster than the 2023 pole time. This underlined the enhancements made to the circuit following extensive upgrades.
Lusail Circuit showcased the future stars of motorsport
The F1 Academy, making its debut at the Lusail Circuit, showcased the future stars of motorsport. PREMA Racing’s Doriane Pin dominated both practice sessions, while title contender Abbi Pulling and rising star Maya Weug impressed with their pace. The FIA Formula 2 Championship also saw intense competition, with Paul Aron securing pole position for Saturday’s race.
But the real highlight came during the Sprint qualifying session for Formula 1, where McLaren’s Lando Norris made history by setting the fastest-ever lap at the Lusail circuit with a time of 1:21.012. Norris claimed pole position for the Sprint race, edging out Mercedes’ George Russell and McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri, who finished second and third respectively.
Off the track, the fan experience was elevated with the introduction of the Fan Forum, allowing fans to interact with drivers and receive exclusive merchandise. The newly opened Lusail Hill Lounge offered a fantastic view of the high-speed action at Turn 1, and Lebanese singer Myriam Fares performed for a captivated crowd.
The excitement continues on Saturday with the highly anticipated 100km Sprint race, a format unique to only six F1 venues this year. The Sprint race promises to deliver thrilling wheel-to-wheel action under the lights, with no mandatory pit stops. Fans attending can make use of complimentary Metro passes and enjoy extended operating hours for the Doha Metro.
Blending high-speed racing with entertainment, the 2024 Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix promises to deliver a memorable experience for motorsport enthusiasts worldwide.
Source: The Peninsula Qatar
