Lando Norris Clinches F1 Drivers' Title in Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Lando Norris seals his first Formula 1 world title with a podium finish in the Abu Dhabi finale, edging Max Verstappen after a tense season-long battle.

Intro: A season-long battle ends in a dramatic finale as Lando Norris secures his first Formula 1 world title at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. He finishes third, enough to win the championship by two points over Max Verstappen.

Race dynamics and title moment

Verstappen led early as the Dutch driver chased another win. Norris stayed in the title frame thanks to a smart two-car plan with his teammate Oscar Piastri, who finished second and supported the effort to keep Norris in the running for the crown.

McLaren delivered steady pressure throughout the race, employing a strategy that preserved the chance to challenge Verstappen while limiting the risk of a late surge from the main rival.

McLaren under pressure and plan

The team had endured a tough spell, including a disqualification in Las Vegas and a late strategy misstep in Qatar. In Abu Dhabi, Norris remained calm and allowed Piastri to lead the closing attack, avoiding a direct duel that could jeopardize the title outcome.

Norris vs Tsunoda moment

The race's most talked-about moment came when Yuki Tsunoda, on a hard-tyre stint, was asked to hinder Norris. Norris passed on the inside during a corner and held the position; stewards later found no penalty for Norris, while Tsunoda received a penalty for defensive moves.

Final standings and legacy

Verstappen dominated the race, but Norris clinched the title through consistency and timely teamwork. Norris becomes the 11th British driver to win the Formula 1 world title, and McLaren secures a rare drivers' and constructors' double—the first since 1998.