Max Verstappen loses Qatar pole position due to grid penalty for impeding rival
Max Verstappen lost his pole position for the Qatar Grand Prix after receiving a one-place grid penalty. The penalty was imposed for impeding Mercedes driver George Russell during the qualifying session. Verstappen had initially set the fastest time but was found to be driving significantly slower than allowed while preparing for his final lap. The Stewards reviewed evidence and determined that Verstappen's strategy conflicted with Russell's approach. The penalty was reduced to one grid position instead of the usual three, as both drivers were not on push laps at the time of the incident. Russell had visibility of Verstappen, which influenced the Stewards' decision.