Alex and Logan preview Qatar

After a week off, it’s time for the final standalone race of the 2023 season, as Qatar gets set to host its second Formula 1 event.

With six races to go, all eyes will be on the Lusail International Circuit ahead of another sprint weekend.

Here’s what Alex, Logan, and Dave Robson, our Head of Vehicle Performance, had to say:

This will be Alex’s first time racing in Qatar, and he’s up for the challenge.

“I’m looking forward to heading to Qatar this week, as it’s a circuit I’m yet to race at, so I’m looking forward to the experience.

“It’s been quite a fun circuit to drive when I’ve been practicing on the simulator and after watching the previous race here in 2021, it looks like there’s opportunity for some good racing, especially with it being another sprint format."

Logan has been putting in the hours since returning from the Japanese Grand Prix to get prepared for this weekend.

“I’m looking forward to racing under the lights in Qatar for the first time this weekend,” the American began.

“Since Japan, I’ve been back at Grove on the simulator and working with my engineers to get a better understanding of the track.

It’s a Sprint weekend which is always exciting and presents us with more opportunities. We’ll be looking to start the weekend off on the right foot in Free Practice and build from there.”

Finally, Head of Vehicle Performance Dave Robson is expecting the Qatari conditions to provide a stern challenge this weekend.

“The layout of the circuit is mostly unchanged although the track has been completely resurfaced, which is likely to have changed its characteristics significantly,” he commented.

“It is currently extremely hot in Qatar and although most of the competitive sessions take place in the evening, it is still likely to be 30 degrees Celsius when we are running under the lights.

“Strong and gusty winds, especially during the day, will also affect the cars’ performance.

“Adding to the challenge is the fact that neither Alex nor Logan have driven here before and whilst both have completed a lot of preparation work in the simulator, it will be a test of their skills to go straight into evening qualifying after just one practice session in the hot afternoon conditions.”