Jannik Sinner will not defend his Beijing title as he continues recovering from a knee injury. He has not competed since winning Wimbledon in July.
Kimi Antonelli qualified 16th after damaging his Mercedes in Azerbaijan, while George Russell took pole by 0.837 seconds. The championship leader accepted responsibility for the mistake.
James Pater and Tommy Freeman scored hat-tricks as Northampton beat Newcastle 59-26. The visitors secured a four-try bonus point.
Bath scored five tries to beat Harlequins 33-17 in their league opener, with Santiago Carreras producing a spectacular interception try. Ewan Richards added the final score after the hosts threatened a second-half comeback.
Warrington Wolves edged Leeds Rhinos 14-12 at Headingley to secure their place at Old Trafford. They will face the winners of Wigan Warriors against Wakefield Trinity.
Elliot Dee’s late try brought Dragons level in Treviso, but Tinus de Beer’s final-minute conversion struck the post as their URC opener ended 19-19.
