Qatar Grand Prix 2024: Predictions and Betting Tips for the Formula 1 Race
The Formula 1 round in Qatar will take place from November 25 to December 1 at the Lusail International Circuit. This will be the 23rd race of the current season.
What odds have the bookmakers prepared for the stage in Qatar? Find the best odds for the racing weekend in our review.
Given Max Verstappen's experience on this relatively new track, and the fact that he remains a frontrunner even with his slightly weakened car, the bookmakers have rated his chances highly. However, it seems Lando Norris is even more motivated to secure his position today.
Who will win?
2024 Qatar Grand Prix Winner Odds
Bookmakers are confident that Lando, driven to maintain second place, will show his best in this penultimate race of the season. Meanwhile, Max is unlikely to push his car too hard and will likely cruise to a top-10 finish.
Recall that Max clinched his fourth World Championship title prematurely at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, pulling 63 points clear of his closest rival, Lando Norris.
Formula 1 Drivers' Championship Title Betting Odds
Although the season winner is already known, the bookmakers have not closed the line for the overall standings. However, the bet formulation has changed significantly. Unibet offers a market to pick the season’s winner excluding Verstappen.
Naturally, Lando has emerged as a strong favourite. He is currently 21 points ahead of Charles Leclerc, making it very challenging for Charles to catch up in just two races, especially since they have been finishing very closely in recent races.
The race for fourth place remains heated in Qatar. Only 9 points separate Oscar Piastri and Carlos Sainz. Carlos finished third in the previous race, significantly closing the gap, while Oscar has been finishing 7th or 8th for three consecutive races. It is quite possible that he might not retain his position.
Interestingly, the same 9-point gap exists between the Mercedes drivers. Although Lewis Hamilton might not be focused on points, it’s suspected that he will strive to outperform his teammate, closing his chapter with the beloved team on a high note.
Personal standings for the 2024 season and odds to win
Driver |
Points |
Max Verstappen |
403 |
Lando Norris |
340 |
Charles Leclerc |
319 |
Oscar Piastri |
268 |
Carlos Sainz |
259 |
Will Sainz obstruct Leclerc?
After an incident and subsequent conflict with teammate Charles Leclerc, Carlos Sainz has commented for the first time, stating that the team have reached a reconciliation.
Recall that Sainz failed to follow team orders during the Las Vegas race, overtaking Charles after the pit stop even though he was asked to hold back.
Carlos remarked on the situation:
Ferrari currently trail McLaren by just 24 points. Given their recent performance in closing this gap, the team stands a good chance of contending for the Constructors’ Cup.
Qatar Grand Prix History
The race was first held on November 21, 2021. This round replaced the Australian Grand Prix which was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Following the success of the inaugural weekend, the FIA signed a 10-year contract to host the Qatar Grand Prix starting from 2023.
So far, only two races have occurred on this track. In 2021, Lewis Hamilton won, and in 2023, Max Verstappen took victory.
Before hosting Formula 1 races, the track held events for MotoGP and the World Touring Car Championship.
The total circuit length at Lusail is 5,419 metres.
Qatar Grand Prix Prediction
The somewhat uninspiring races in Vegas and São Paulo should not deter Charles Leclerc’s fans. He is currently more motivated than ever to move into second place and maximise his season.
Moreover, his car can certainly compete with McLarens, and the “peace agreement” with his teammate will not be amiss in the upcoming race.
Let’s not forget that aggressive Max is evidently ready to ease off after his championship victory, and it’s not out of the question that in a critical track situation, he might yield a position to Charles, avoiding any risk to his chassis, which he will certainly need for the upcoming 2025 season tests.
Qatar Grand Prix Schedule and Weather Forecast
Meteorologists promise comfortable ambient temperatures with no precipitation. However, gusty winds might challenge the drivers.
On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, temperatures will rise to +25°C, but the qualifying, sprint, and race will occur after sunset when the temperature drops to +22-20°C.
When to watch | Event |
November 29, 1.00 pm on Sky Sports F1 | Practice One |
November 29, 5.00pm on Sky Sports F1 | Sprint Qualifying |
November 30, 2.30pm on Sky Sports F1 | QATAR GP SPRINT |
November 30, 6.00pm on Sky Sports F1 | QATAR GP QUALIFYING |
December 1, 4.00pm on Sky Sports F1 | The QATAR GRAND PRIX |