How does F1 qualifying work?
A clear guide to modern Formula 1 qualifying formats, including sprint weekends.
On a standard Grand Prix weekend, qualifying sets the grid for Sunday's race.
Drivers compete in three timed sessions — Q1, Q2 and Q3 — with the slowest runners eliminated after each segment.
On sprint weekends, sprint qualifying usually replaces traditional qualifying on Friday, with the sprint race on Saturday and full qualifying moved to Saturday afternoon.
Always check the official session schedule for the current weekend because formats can change by season.