Sainz ruled out of Qatar Grand Prix

Carlos Sainz will not take part in the Qatar Grand Prix.

The Spaniard was due to start the race at the Lusail International Circuit from 12th on the grid after a difficult qualifying session on Friday, though the Ferrari looked improved on Saturday through Sprint Shootout and the Sprint itself.

But the Scuderia confirmed he would not take part in the 57-lap race after complications arising from a fuel leak ahead of the event.

Sainz's car has been put back together, minus the tyres, but with no work taking place on the machine, Ferrari explained: "Due to a fuel system issue on his car, Carlos will not take part in the Qatar GP."

The race was already hit by drama by an intervention from the FIA and Pirelli which mandates tyres to be run to just an 18-lap life, effectively instigating an obligatory three-stop race.