RACE START: Enjoy the race start at the Qatar GP as Verstappen snatches the lead while three cars tangle behind

Max Verstappen reclaimed the top spot that he lost as a result of his penalty after yesterday's qualifying in Qatar, getting the better of George Russell off the line before the Safety Car was brought out for an incident further back on the opening lap.

The Dutchman executed the perfect getaway, hugging the inside line into Turn 1 to get ahead of pole-sitter George Russell. It momentarily looked like the McLaren of Lando Norris would snatch the lead from both, but he ultimately settled into P2.

LIVE COVERAGE: Follow all the action from the 2024 Qatar Grand Prix

Further down the field, Nico Hulkenberg locked up and clipped Esteban Ocon, with Williams youngster Franco Colapinto also becoming tangled up in the incident.

It was a messy lap across the field as Lance Stroll and Alex Albon touched at a later corner, sending the Williams spinning off track.

Click go on the video player above to watch the opening lap of the Qatar Grand Prix.