F1 Saudi Arabia GP Live Commentary and Updates - race day

You can see why race organisers were eager for a fully night race, as the pre-event lights show is incredible. Hopefully they turn back on some of the lights in time for the race start, mind.

A cheerful rendition of the Saudi Arabian national anthem is played on the grid in front of the drivers and a very busy track. All of the big names are there.

A quick reminder of the grid: Hamilton starts from pole position in a Mercedes 1-2 with Bottas next to him on the front row. Verstappen came so close to pole until he hit the wall at the final corner on his last Q3 lap, but he starts from third.

 

This is a big one for so many reasons, as Saudi Arabia's first F1 race at the super-fast Jeddah street track. Add to that the title could be won today, it means there's an extra edge for what is at stake.