Will the Qatar Grand Prix turn into a strategic nightmare for McLaren? With a Sprint weekend on the schedule there are 33 points available, which could decide – or completely derail – the title fight between Lando Norris, Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri.
F1 Qatar Grand Prix Latest Odds
| Qatar Grand Prix Winner | Odds | Bookmaker |
|---|---|---|
| Max Verstappen | 5/4 | William Hill |
| Lando Norris | 2/1 | Ladbrokes |
| Oscar Piastri | 7/1 | BetMGM |
| George Russell | 14/1 | bet365 |
*Odds correct as of 12:40 GMT on 28/11/2025. Odds subject to change
Who wins the Qatar Grand Prix?
After his somewhat fortunate win in Las Vegas, Max Verstappen heads to Qatar as favourite. Lando Norris is priced closely behind and could secure the World Championship this weekend, depending on results across both races. The best online bookies are following latest developments, though there is one name which they are currently leading towards.
Why Verstappen holds the advantage?
Norris does not need to win in Qatar, Verstappen does. With the drivers’ title in reach, McLaren are unlikely to take unnecessary risks. If a safe podium guarantees the championship, they may prioritise points over victory.
Verstappen has nothing to conserve so expect the Dutchman to attack from lap one, regardless of risk. The bookies are currently backing him to get the job done in Qatar, pricing the driver at 5/4.
A look at the Qatar circuit
Doha is a high-speed, high-load track with long flowing corners and punishing tyre wear. Historically, Norris has struggled on similar layouts such as Jeddah, Silverstone and Barcelona, where both Piastri and Verstappen have tended to hold the edge.
No Expiry Date
The rule change that could shake everything
From Qatar onwards, each tyre set may only be used for a maximum of 25 laps. Under normal conditions this would have heavily favoured McLaren, who have been the standout team for tyre management all season.
With that advantage neutralised, the balance swings towards Verstappen. Over longer stints the Dutchman is less likely to be trapped behind a tyre-saving McLaren and more likely to dictate race pace outright.
