(Motorsports news) An abnormally hot race and tough track conditions made for an exciting Qatar Grand Prix weekend, with Max Verstappen eventually claiming Formula One’s 2023 title. Following the 2022 break caused by its hosting of the FIFA World Cup, Qatar made its second appearance as an F1 grand prix host, and offered an enthralling spectacle throughout the weekend, bolstered by an intense sprint race.

But, against the backdrop of on- and off-track developments, with tyre issues and great rookie performances mingling with recent news about prospective new teams and changes to financial laws, there was a lot to take in.

Verstappen has finally completed the unavoidable:

A third Verstappen title was predicted at the start of the year, when it became clear that Red Bull’s primary opponents had not met their growth goals with their new vehicles. And, after Sergio Perez’s brief appearance in Miami as a prospective championship challenger fizzled, expectation became inevitable.

Perez finished the season by interfering in a sprint race clash between Esteban Ocon and Nico Hulkenberg, third-wheeling his way out of more than just theoretical title contention. Verstappen had won the championship, and while it wasn’t the most exciting conclusion to a title, it was reassuring that the permutations were known in advance – unlike last year.

Piastri’s potential as a megastar is undeniable:

Oscar Piastri seemed to be getting better with each race. The unassuming Australian suffered an upset on Friday when a third-place grid position at Qatar’s Losail circuit went begging owing to track constraints, but rallied on Saturday with pole and victory in a confident effort out front. On Sunday, Piastri finished second in the Grand Prix, trailing Verstappen by 4.8 seconds.

The Briton’s outstanding race management abilities have mostly overcome a McLaren deficit in tyre preservation, but the mandatory stint lengths in Qatar guaranteed that the margin between the two on Sunday was not as great. Despite the fact that Piastri still has work to do in this area.

Russell’s battle will not be dampened by Mercedes’ on-track animosity:

Lewis Hamilton admitted responsibility for the first-corner collision between the two Mercedes drivers at Qatar’s Losail circuit, agreeing that George Russell had little opportunity to maneuver while sandwiched between his teammate and Max Verstappen. Russell’s ability to launch a fightback through the order was secured by the fact that he had little lingering effects following the battle, despite plummeting to the back of the field.

Russell worked his way back into the top four thanks to a slew of moves at Turn 6, but the McLarens were too far away for him to make a last-ditch podium challenge on soft tyres. Instead, the Briton chose to secure fourth position and salvage points for Mercedes, which is closing in on second place in the constructors’ championship. Thankfully, the two drivers’ on-track infractions did not flow over into off-track concerns, and the two drivers expressed their appreciation for each other as the chequered flag fell.

Extreme heat exhaustion should not be repeated:

Logan Sargeant’s retirement from dehydration and heatstroke during the Qatar race exposed the drivers’ struggle with the excessive heat and humidity at Losail. The temperature was between 32 and 33 degrees Celsius, which, along with the humidity of around 70%, forced drivers to raise their visors to keep cool.

Alex Albon had to go to the medical center rather than the media area to be treated after the Qatar GP, while Esteban Ocon vomited inside the vehicle during the race and Lance Stroll struggled to get out without feeling faint at the finish. The drivers agreed that Qatar GP was the toughest race of their lives; the intense short-stint aspect of the race produced an unforgiving affair, and the heat only served to magnify the struggle.

Andretti is chosen, although his popularity in Formula One is low:

It’s not surprising that F1’s current teams are opposed to an 11th entrant; after all, it means less prize money and having to share more paddock space with another team. The FIA has approved Andretti’s potential F1 entrance, and it is up to the American team to clinch a commercial rights contract with Formula One Management – however FOM will face competition from other teams.

In light of the announcement, Williams chief James Vowles was possibly the most ardent opponent of a potential Andretti entry, stating: “My thoughts are very clear.” Williams is vehemently opposed to the addition of an 11th team. We’ve been clear from the start that we’re pleased to bring in new businesses, but the pie must increase as a result, not shrink. So far, it’s only been shrinking.”

Christian Horner welcomed General Motors’ arrival into F1 to compete with Ford, which would collaborate with Red Bull Powertrains in 2026, but requested reassurance that the entry would not weaken the team’s interests.

Also read: Due to tyre concerns, the FIA has mandated maximum 18-lap stints in the F1 Qatar GP