Max Verstappen took pole position for the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, but Lando Norris remains in control of the Formula One world championship. Norris starts second, alongside his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri in third, with the title set to be decided on Sunday night at Yas Marina.
Norris leads the championship by 12 points over Verstappen and 16 over Piastri. The Briton will clinch his first drivers’ title — the 11th for a British driver in F1 history — by finishing on the podium or ahead of both rivals. Verstappen must win and hope Norris finishes outside the top three, while Piastri needs victory and Norris to be sixth or lower.
Verstappen, who secured his eighth pole of the season with a lap of 1:22.207, made clear his aggressive intent for the opening corners. “All out, I have nothing to lose,” he said. “I’m going to try to win the race. If I need to attack, I’ll attack.” The Dutchman has won five of the last eight races after a mid-season slump left his title hopes seemingly over.
Norris, despite the pressure, remained composed. “I’m not too bothered to be the hunter or the hunted,” he said. “I’m still going to plan for how we can win the race.” McLaren confirmed they would use team orders if necessary to ensure one of their drivers secures the championship.
Lewis Hamilton endured a miserable qualifying, crashing in final practice after a suspension failure and then managing only 16th place. “I don’t have the words to describe the feeling inside,” said the seven-time champion, who has yet to take a podium this season — the first time in his career.
