Doha: Lusail International Circuit (LIC) set the tone for an electrifying weekend as the FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2025 commenced on Friday.
With an action packed schedule featuring practice sessions, Sprint Qualifying, and multiple off track activities, the Family Friday atmosphere created a lively environment for fans of all ages, resulting in packed grandstands throughout the day.
The interactive Fan Zone was buzzing with activations fully occupied as attendees explored various food stands, games, experiences, and merchandise, making it a vibrant and unforgettable day.
The day kicked off with the Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East’s first practice session with Seven X Seven’s Taichi Watarai claiming pole position with a time of 1:58.969.
Caleb Sumich of DHL Team secured second place, while Saudi Racing’s Khaled Alahmadi demonstrated impressive pace for Saudi Racing, finishing third with a competitive 2:00.046, closely followed by Alexandra Vateva of Splendid Racing in fourth.
Local Qatari driver Abdulla Al-Khelaifi, stepping up to the Pro category this season, also showed promise by claiming fifth place.
This was followed by the FIA Formula 2™’s practice session, showcasing the next generation of racing talent. Leonardo Fornaroli of Invicta Racing set the pace with a time of 1:38.656, followed by Dino Beganovic (Hitech TGR) and Alexander Dunne from Rodin Motorsport completing the top three, clocking in at 1:39.258.
Saturday’s schedule promises even more excitement with the Sprint race, marking Qatar’s position as one of only six venues chosen by FORMULA 1® to host this thrilling format in 2025.
The 100km Sprint race, requiring no mandatory pit stops, is set to deliver intense wheel to wheel action under the lights.
The circuit gates open at 1:30 PM today.
Ticket holders are reminded that complimentary Metro passes are available for redemption at the goldclub office at any Doha Metro station or selected Lusail Tram stations. The Doha Metro will operate extended hours from 05:00 AM to 01:30 AM on Saturday, with complimentary shuttle services running from Lusail QNB Station to the circuit.
