Overview
- Max Verstappen qualified on pole, with Lando Norris starting second and Oscar Piastri third for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
- The standings before the race are Norris 408 points, Verstappen 396, and Piastri 392.
- Norris secures the 2025 drivers’ title with any podium finish and remains in control of his own outcome.
- Verstappen becomes champion if he wins with Norris no better than fourth, or if he finishes second with Piastri not winning and Norris no better than eighth, or third with Piastri not winning and Norris no better than ninth.
- Recent form and track trends add intrigue, with the last ten Abu Dhabi races all won from pole and Verstappen reporting strong pace in qualifying.