Qatar Grand Prix “More Than a Race,” Says FIA President
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem is calling the Qatar Grand Prix a powerful symbol of the country’s motorsport ambitions ahead of the 2025 event.
“The Qatar Grand Prix is more than a race – it is a symbol of the country’s ambition, not only to host but to grow motorsport from the grassroots to the global stage,” Ben Sulayem said.
The 64-year-old leader emphasized how Qatar is working to develop racing at all levels.
He also highlighted the Middle East’s growing importance to Formula 1.
“As we look to the future, this Grand Prix reaffirms our confidence in the Middle East and the important part the region plays in the championship’s calendar,” he added.
Qatar joined the F1 calendar back in 2021, but it hasn’t been smooth sailing. The event has faced criticism over extreme heat conditions and the need for special tire rules.
The 2025 race will continue this trend with yet another unusual tire regulation.
Pirelli and the FIA have decided drivers must complete a mandatory 25-lap stint on each tire compound during the race.
Not everyone’s thrilled about this decision.
## Team Boss Slams Qatar’s Special Tire Rule
Haas F1 team boss Ayao Komatsu recently blasted the special tire rule coming to this year’s Qatar Grand Prix. The 49-year-old warned it could “destroy the racing spectacle.”
The Japanese motorsport chief made it clear he’s not a fan of artificial changes to races.
Will these special rules help or hurt the racing action? Many fans are wondering the same thing as F1 prepares to return to Lusail.
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