The stage is set for a dramatic conclusion to the Formula One season at Yas Marina Circuit as Lando Norris emerged as the standout performer during Friday’s practice sessions for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The McLaren driver, who leads the championship standings by 12 points, demonstrated impressive pace by clocking the fastest times in both practice runs ahead of Sunday’s title decider.
Norris’s performance edge was particularly notable during the evening session under floodlights, where he outpaced his closest rival Max Verstappen by 0.363 seconds. The British driver’s consistent dominance throughout both sessions positions him favorably for what promises to be an electrifying championship finale.
Defending champion Verstappen, seeking to equal Michael Schumacher’s record of five consecutive world titles, secured the second-fastest time. The Red Bull driver faces the challenging scenario of needing to win the race while hoping Norris fails to secure a podium finish.
The championship battle extends to a third contender, Oscar Piastri, who currently sits just four points behind Verstappen. The Australian McLaren driver experienced a mixed day, finishing 11th in the evening session after skipping the afternoon practice. Team principal Zak Brown expressed confidence in Piastri’s ability to improve, noting both drivers appeared remarkably relaxed despite the high stakes.
Mercedes’ George Russell and Haas rookie Oliver Bearman completed the top four in the evening session, while several teams utilized the first practice to provide track time for reserve drivers. The atmosphere at Yas Marina intensified as thousands of spectators gathered to witness what could become one of Formula One’s most memorable championship conclusions.
Historical context adds further intrigue to the showdown, as Verstappen claimed his first world title at this same circuit in 2021. The Dutch champion arrives with momentum from consecutive victories in Las Vegas and Qatar, setting the stage for a climactic battle between three drivers separated by just 16 points.