Formula 1 is set for a dramatic 2025 season finale at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where the title will be decided between leading contenders Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, and Oscar Piastri. There have been significant developments in teams and drivers, championship strategies, and key lineup changes.​

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Finale

  • The championship will be decided at the Abu Dhabi GP, with Norris, Verstappen, and Piastri all mathematically in contention, although Norris leads the standings after Verstappen’s win in Qatar.​

  • Drivers are expressing varied sentiments; Verstappen appears relaxed, while Norris feels the pressure as he has “most to lose” in the final race.​

Team and Driver Updates

  • Red Bull will replace Yuki Tsunoda with Isack Hadjar for the 2026 season; meanwhile, Liam Lawson stays at Racing Bulls alongside Arvid Lindblad, a highly rated teenage rookie.​

  • Ferrari is preparing for major personnel changes after a difficult season, with Hamilton suggesting a fresh start is needed for 2026.​

  • McLaren faces internal review after questionable strategy calls in Qatar that may have cost them crucial points in the title fight.

Off-Track Headlines

  • Toyota Gazoo Racing is set to become the title sponsor for Haas F1 in 2026, signaling a major partnership shift for the American team.​

  • F1 drivers have rallied around rookie Kimi Antonelli, who addressed struggles and online abuse but remains determined for future success.​

Upcoming Changes

  • The 2026 F1 grid is seeing movement with Red Bull and other teams finalizing driver lineups, while fans prepare for the winter “Warm Up Party” in Madrid ahead of the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix.​

  • Mercedes and Ferrari are both targeting fresh approaches and car launches for 2026, reflecting significant technical and staffing updates.​

For the latest race results, driver news, and live updates, Formula 1’s official website remains the primary go-to source.

F1 Abu Dhabi GP 2025 Key Info

Yas Marina Circuit hosts the season finale December 5-7, 2025, with FP1/FP2 today (Dec 5), FP3/Quali tomorrow, and race Sunday at 5 PM local (17:00 UAE). Track length: 5.281 km, 58 laps, known for overtaking zones and dramatic night finishes.​

Title Fight Standings

Lando Norris (McLaren): 408 points, leads by 12 over Max Verstappen (Red Bull, 396) and 16 over Oscar Piastri (McLaren, 392). First three-way decider since 2010; winner-takes-25-points race could crown any of them.​

Recent Momentum

Verstappen won Qatar GP, beating Piastri P2 and Norris P4 after McLaren’s strategy blunder. Verstappen “very relaxed” with late-season surge; Norris needs podium if Max wins.

Constructors’ Championship

McLaren leads with 800 points, securing their second consecutive title after Singapore GP, ahead of Mercedes (459) and Red Bull (426). Ferrari (382), Williams (137), and others trail; Mercedes-Red Bull swap unlikely.​

Detailed Driver Scenarios

Lando Norris (408 pts): Podium guarantees title (3rd=15 pts enough if rivals win). Wins tiebreaker over both via 8 runner-up finishes.​

Max Verstappen (396 pts): Needs 1st (25 pts) + Norris 4th or worse; podium minimum required. Holds 7 wins like rivals.​

Oscar Piastri (392 pts): Must win + Norris 6th or lower; 2nd needs Norris 10th+ and Verstappen off podium.​

Track & Format Facts

Yas Marina: 5.281km, 58 laps, night race starting 17:00 UAE (Dec 7). Sessions: FP1/FP2 Dec 5, FP3/Quali Dec 6. First 3-way finale since 2010.