Verstappen wins Qatar Grand Prix as Norris drops back due to penalty
Max Verstappen won the Qatar Grand Prix after Lando Norris received a penalty for not slowing down for yellow flags, dropping him to last place. Norris recovered to finish 10th, while Charles Leclerc took second and Oscar Piastri third. The race began with George Russell in pole position, but Verstappen quickly took the lead. A series of incidents, including a crash that brought out the Safety Car, affected several drivers, including Sergio Pérez, who retired from the race. Verstappen maintained control after the Safety Car periods, finishing six seconds ahead of Leclerc. Russell placed fourth, and Pierre Gasly finished fifth. Ferrari gained points against McLaren in the Constructors' Championship, setting up a final showdown in Abu Dhabi.