The thrilling Las Vegas Grand Prix, Scuderia Ferrari HP and the other Formula 1 teams have embarked on a 13,000-kilometer journey to the Persian Gulf. This weekend, the Qatar Grand Prix marks the penultimate race of the 2024 season and the last Sprint event of the year.
The Lusail International Circuit
The Lusail International Circuit, renowned for its modern paddocks thanks to a 2023 overhaul, is a unique venue with roots in motorcycle racing. The track’s original layout has been preserved since its debut with the 2004 MotoGP, long before Qatar hosted its first Formula 1 race in 2021. Its design, tailored for two-wheeled racing, emphasizes fast, flowing corner sequences that provide motorcycle racers with multiple overtaking lines. However, for Formula 1 cars, overtaking opportunities are fewer, with drivers relying heavily on flat-out pace.
The lap begins with a long main straight leading into a sharp right-hand turn, one of the primary overtaking spots on the track. High-speed left-right combinations at turns 2 and 3 follow, transitioning into two right-handers that set up the hairpin at turn 6—another potential overtaking zone. The middle sector features a series of rapid corners, culminating in the final sector’s trio of fast right-handers. The lap ends with turn 16, which opens onto the DRS-enabled start-finish straight.
Weather Conditions
The 2023 Qatar Grand Prix was infamous for its grueling heat, which pushed drivers and machinery to their limits. This year, with the race being held two months later, the climate is expected to be more forgiving. However, the desert environment presents unique challenges. While rain is unlikely, wind and sand can disrupt grip and visibility, and the region’s notorious sandstorms remain a potential hazard.
Tyre Strategy Challenges
Tyre management will once again be a critical factor at Lusail. Last year, excessive tyre wear prompted the FIA to mandate pit stops every 18 laps for safety. Although such measures are not anticipated this time, teams will still need to navigate the track’s abrasive surface carefully. With limited overtaking opportunities, strategy could hinge on executing undercuts or overcuts effectively. A two-stop strategy, utilizing a mix of tyre compounds, might be the key to gaining track position.
Race Weekend Schedule
The compressed Sprint weekend format adds extra pressure, allowing only one free practice session before diving into competitive action. The schedule is as follows:
- Friday:
- Free Practice: 16:30 (local) / 14:30 (CET)
- Sprint Qualifying: 20:30 (local) / 18:30 (CET)
- Saturday:
- Sprint Race: 17:00 (local) / 15:00 (CET)
- Grand Prix Qualifying: 21:00 (local) / 19:00 (CET)
- Sunday:
- Grand Prix: 19:00 (local) / 17:00 (CET)
The main event spans 57 laps, covering a total of 308.611 kilometers.
Fred Vasseur’s Perspective
Fred Vasseur, Scuderia Ferrari HP Team Principal, acknowledges the challenges of the upcoming race. “From the chilly desert nights of Las Vegas, where we managed to close the gap to McLaren in the championship to 24 points, we now head to Lusail’s warmer climate. The contrast extends beyond the weather—this track’s high-speed corners differ significantly from the right-angle turns and long straights of Las Vegas. On paper, this circuit doesn’t favor our car, but we’re determined to make the most of every opportunity.”
The unique Sprint format amplifies the importance of preparation at the team’s Maranello headquarters. “With only one free practice session, the groundwork laid by our engineers and strategists is more critical than ever,” Vasseur explains. “There are 59 points still up for grabs, but this isn’t the time for complex calculations. Our focus remains on flawless execution to help Charles and Carlos maximize the SF-24’s potential.”
The season’s closing races highlight the sport’s relentless competitiveness. Vasseur adds, “Formula 1 is at an incredibly high level right now, where even the smallest detail can upset expectations and alter the pecking order. These next two weekends demand a final, all-out effort. Our drivers, engineers, and the entire team—both at the track and back home—are ready to give it their all.”
As the 2024 season nears its conclusion, the Lusail weekend promises high stakes and intense action, with every team pushing to end the year on a high note. For Scuderia Ferrari HP, it’s a chance to cement their progress and chase those final, critical points.
