Everything is set for the final qualifying of the season in Abu Dhabi — follow it live with us on GPblog!
After making a strong statement on Friday, Lando Norris is aiming for pole — the final one of the season — to capitalize on the competitiveness his MCL39 has shown so far this weekend, and, above all, to avoid any complications in the championship fight.
The Brit can secure the World Championship simply by finishing in the top three, regardless of where his two title rivals end up, on a track he clearly loves, as last year’s result showed.
In last year’s edition, the Constructors’ Championship was at stake, and with all the pressure on his shoulders following the first-lap clash between Verstappen and his teammate, Norris delivered a masterclass — leading the race from start to finish and handing the Constructors’ title back to McLaren at Ferrari’s expense.
Photo: Race Pictures
On the other side, Verstappen will be looking to spoil the Brit’s party. He knows all about dramatic finales at Abu Dhabi, recalling what happened four years ago when he snatched victory from Lewis Hamilton on the final lap, claiming the first of his four career titles so far.
The one weather variable that may cause headaches for title contenders
So far, all practice sessions have taken place in dry conditions, as is typical in a hot, arid location like Abu Dhabi.
Qualifying and the race are also set to run in dry conditions. While qualifying is expected to mirror what we’ve seen in FP1, FP2, and FP3, one variable could come into play during the race and influence the title fight.