Max Verstappen will start from pole in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix season finale, with title rivals Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri lining up right behind him in second and third. The championship remains in Norris’s control: he will become world champion if he finishes ahead of both rivals, or simply third or better. Verstappen must win and hope Norris finishes off the podium, while Piastri needs victory and Norris sixth or lower.
Verstappen, who has surged late in the season, set a 1:22.207 to take pole, but Norris showed confidence despite the pressure, calling the situation “fine” and insisting he plans to fight for the win. McLaren say they will use team orders if needed to secure the title.
Lewis Hamilton’s difficult season continued as he qualified only 16th after a practice crash. The stage is set for a tense finale under the lights — Verstappen with track position, Norris with the points advantage, and one race to decide it all.
