The traditional Formula 1 drivers' dinner in Abu Dhabi, held just before the dramatic season finale, saw the entire grid come together for a celebratory feast. However, in a humorous twist, reigning champion Max Verstappen has now disclosed the reason he failed to pick up the tab, even though it was officially his turn this year.
The Bill That Slipped Away
The Red Bull Racing superstar recently addressed the topic on the team's 'Talking Bull' podcast. He was reminded of his duty after Valtteri Bottas had generously paid for the entire grid's meal the previous year. Verstappen offered a candid and amusing explanation for the mix-up.
He recounted, "I was sitting on the opposite side of the entrance to the private room. You're having a laugh for most of the night, and then suddenly people started wanting to leave. That's when we realised that Pierre Gasly had already settled the dinner bill." The Dutch driver added with a laugh, "I was just enjoying my gin and tonics on the other side of the room. I guess next time, I'll have to inform the restaurant staff as soon as I arrive that the final bill is mine, so I can actually pay it."
A Promise for Next Year and Hamilton's Tribute
Verstappen assured listeners that he would definitely be responsible for the bill at next year's dinner and would make arrangements with the restaurant manager in advance to avoid a repeat. The dinner was immortalised in a group photo shared by Lewis Hamilton on Instagram, featuring all drivers from Max Verstappen and Lando Norris to rookie Oscar Piastri.
Hamilton's caption captured the spirit of the evening: "Class of 2025. We're the only people in the world to do what we do and for that we're incredibly lucky. I'm grateful for this group of drivers I have the privilege of racing against... there's nothing but respect and I'm proud to call them friends." He ended by hoping to give fans a great last race.
A Nail-Biting Championship Conclusion
The backdrop to this light-hearted story was a fiercely contested championship battle. While Max Verstappen was initially out of the title fight this season, the four-time world champion staged a remarkable comeback. By the time the final race in Abu Dhabi arrived, he had significantly closed the gap on the leading contenders, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
In a heart-stopping finish, the championship was decided by the narrowest of margins. Lando Norris ultimately clinched the title, beating Verstappen by a mere two points. This dramatic conclusion capped off an unforgettable season of Formula 1 racing.
The F1 drivers are now enjoying a well-deserved end-of-season break. They will return to competitive action at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, scheduled for March, where new rivalries and stories will begin.
