Overview
- Lando Norris clinched the 2025 championship by finishing third in Abu Dhabi, while Max Verstappen won the race but ended two points short in the standings.
- Norris confirmed he will run the number 1 in 2026, meaning Verstappen must choose a new number after four seasons using the champion’s #1.
- Multiple outlets report Helmut Marko is set to leave Red Bull for 2026, with Sebastian Vettel mentioned as a candidate to succeed him and Gianpiero Lambiase’s role under review.
- Lewis Hamilton labeled his first Ferrari season his worst, finishing sixth with no Grand Prix podiums and saying he will disconnect over the winter after three straight Q1 exits.
- Post‑season testing at Yas Marina begins Tuesday with rookie evaluations and 2026‑minded runs, including IndyCar’s Pato O’Ward driving for McLaren.