The stage is set for a dramatic climax to the Formula 1 season in Abu Dhabi, with McLaren's Lando Norris sending a strong signal by topping both free practice sessions on Friday. His championship rival, Red Bull's Max Verstappen, trailed closely in second place on both occasions.
Practice Sessions: Norris in Command, Piastri Struggles
Lando Norris was the driver to beat at the Yas Marina Circuit, setting the fastest lap times in FP1 and again in FP2. This performance solidifies his position as he holds a 12-point lead over Verstappen in the drivers' championship standings. However, the day brought worrying signs for the other McLaren driver, Oscar Piastri.
Piastri, who also remains in title contention, sat out the first session as his car was handed to rookie Patricio O'Ward. Upon his return for FP2, he could only manage 11th place, narrowly missing the top ten and raising concerns about his form ahead of the decisive race.
McLaren's Strategic Conundrum Ahead of Finale
The situation creates a complex strategic puzzle for the McLaren team. With Norris on 308 points and Piastri on 392, both drivers are mathematically in the hunt. However, Verstappen sits between them and is perfectly poised to snatch a fifth world title if the McLaren duo take points off each other.
Addressing the potential for team orders, McLaren CEO Zak Brown stated the team's initial position is to let them race freely as long as both have a chance. "They're free to race," Brown said. However, he added a crucial caveat, indicating a pragmatic shift could come. "If, as the weekend develops, it becomes clear that one has a significantly better chance than the other... we will do what's in the best interest of the team." This statement hints that support orders for Norris could be issued if Piastri's pace does not improve.
Practice Standings and What Comes Next
In FP1, behind Norris and Verstappen, Ferrari's Charles Leclerc took third. Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli was an impressive fourth, followed by Nico Hulkenberg (Kick Sauber), George Russell (Mercedes), Gabriel Bortoleto (Kick Sauber), and Oliver Bearman (Haas).
The FP2 order saw Norris and Verstappen followed by George Russell in third. Haas driver Oliver Bearman continued to impress by taking fourth, expressing surprise at his car's strong performance. The final practice session (FP3) and qualifying will take place on Saturday, setting the grid for Sunday's championship decider.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is scheduled to start at 5:00 PM local time on Sunday (6:30 PM IST). All eyes will be on the McLaren garage to see if teamwork or internal rivalry defines their ultimate championship fate.
