RACE START REPLAY: Verstappen up to P4 as Hamilton keeps the lead on Lap 1 in Qatar
There was drama just over an hour before the start of the Qatar Grand Prix when Max Verstappen and Valtteri Bottas were both handed grid penalties for ignoring yellow flags in qualifying.
Verstappen saw his P2 grid slot become P7, while Bottas dropped from third to sixth – with Lewis Hamilton starting on pole.
But when the lights went out to start the race at the Losail International Circuit, Verstappen got a great start to get back up to P4 on the opening lap, as Hamilton held his lead at the front – while Bottas had a dreadful start, dropping a further five places to P11.
See how the opening lap unfolded in the video above, and follow all the action from the race in our live blog here.
Next Up
Related Articles
UnlockedWhat are the strategy options for the Japanese Grand Prix?
Lindblad outlines his bold approach to Q3 appearance in Japan
AS IT HAPPENED: Antonelli beats Russell to Japanese GP pole
Antonelli soaks up ‘incredible feeling’ after taking Japan pole
Watch Round 2 of the 2026 F1 Sim Racing World Championship
BettingBetting mistakes to avoid during Japanese Grand Prix