F1 Live | The 2021 Qatar Grand Prix: Hamilton from pole

The Qatar Grand Prix is gearing up for the final day of racing, with the main race scheduled. While Lewis Hamilton tries to get closer to Max Verstappen in the world championship from pole position, the Dutchman has to strike directly at the start from seventh.

LIVEBLOG | The race for the 2021 Qatar Grand Prix

Verstappen had to work hard during qualifying to get anywhere near Mercedes' times. He managed to do so in Q3 by setting the second-fastest time, which gave him an interesting starting position for the race. However, the Red Bull driver was well behind Hamilton's time and will have to work hard in the race because of his five-place penalty. 

The world championship leader won't be able to count on any help from his teammate. Sergio Perez drove a disappointing time in qualifying and did not even reach Q3. With an eleventh time, Perez's Sunday afternoon will be difficult. Verstappen might get some help from former teammate Pierre Gasly, who will start from fourth in his AlphaTauri.

Fernando Alonso, Lando Norris, Carlos Sainz, Yuki Tsunoda, Esteban Ocon and Sebastian Vettel complete the top ten on the starting grid in Qatar. As a result, apart from Perez also Daniel Ricciardo (fourteenth time) and Charles Leclerc (thirteenth time) are facing a difficult day.