CONGRATULATIONS are in order for Max Verstappen as he secured a historic third consecutive F1 title – and the Dutchman will be desperate to follow that up with a win at the Qatar Grand Prix. Piastri, Ocon, Alonso and Leclerc have all pitted here on lap 27. A few drivers pit on lap 22, and we seem to have some order restored at the front of the race. Alonso, Piastri, Gasly and Leclerc are all pitting here on lap 12. Piastri held it briefly, but Verstappen has quickly stood up to him, and he sets a new record on the following lap. Piastri sets the fastest lap of the race so far on lap seven. We have Max Verstappen out front, followed by Piastri, Alonso, Leclerc, Ocon, Norris and Gasly in that order. Here we go for the formation lap, Hamilton is on softs, with most other drivers on mediums.

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