F1 LIVE | Sprint Shootout for the sprint race in Qatar

Max Verstappen was the dominant force in qualifying for the Qatar Grand Prix. Before the race happens on Sunday, however, Saturday's Sprint action needs to take place, with the sprint shootout setting up the sprint race later tonight. Can Verstappen dominate on Saturday as well and win his third world championship? Stay tuned via our liveblog to find out what happens this afternoon.

Saturday will be an important day for Verstappen: during the sprint race, the Red Bull Racing driver can secure his third Formula 1 world title. He doesn't need to perform miracles in the sprint race to do that, but it would be helpful if he assures himself of a good starting position. He can do that during the Sprint Shootout, the short qualifying session before the sprint race.

However, there are teams looking to cause an upset today. Mercedes and McLaren came out strong on Friday but still were unable to close the gap to the Dutchman out in front. They may dare to take a little more risk on Saturday in order to finish ahead of their rivals. For now, Mercedes seems to have little to fear from their nearest rival Ferrari, but could get into a fight with McLaren.