Overview
- Lando Norris topped both Friday sessions at Yas Marina, edging Max Verstappen by 0.008s in FP1 and by 0.363s in FP2.
- McLaren CEO Zak Brown confirmed the team will use orders if only one driver remains a realistic title contender during the race.
- Oscar Piastri missed FP1 due to rookie‑driver obligations for Pato O’Ward and returned to place 11th in FP2.
- Verstappen reported his car felt “broken” in FP1 yet finished second in both sessions as he chases a record‑equalling fifth consecutive title.
- McLaren restricted all non‑FIA media access for Norris and Piastri to help them focus during the first three‑way finale since 2010.