On this episode of Chequered Past, we look back on an eventful 1st of December in motorsport history. Our main story takes us to the 2024 Qatar Grand Prix — a night defined by Safety Cars, penalties, and a result that carried real weight in the late-season constructors’ battle. George Russell started from pole, Max Verstappen seized control into Turn 1, and Lando Norris saw a strong podium challenge collapse with a harsh stop-go penalty.

We then celebrate the birthday of South African driver Guy Tunmer, whose single World Championship start in 1975 was only a small part of a respected national career. His performances in Formula 2 machinery and the South African Formula One Championship made him one of the standout domestic talents of the era.

Next, we revisit 1 December 2020, when Lewis Hamilton tested positive for COVID-19, triggering one of the most remarkable substitute drives of the hybrid era as George Russell stepped into the Mercedes seat at the Sakhir Grand Prix.

Finally, we close with the 2019 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where Lewis Hamilton delivered a grand slam to finish off the season, as McLaren secured fourth in the constructors’ standings and Max Verstappen completed his strongest year yet.

From drama in the desert to stories of opportunity, resilience and precision, this is The Chaos That Shook Qatar.

Cover image: heute.at, CC BY 4.0, Link

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Music by #Mubert Music Rendering