The final race of the Formula 1 season is finally here, and there can only be one champion in Abu Dhabi.
Max Verstappen starts on pole at a grand prix he has won from pole four times previously, but he faces competition from Lando Norris, who starts on the front row beside him, leads by 12 points in the championship and won from pole at Yas Marina Circuit last year.
Oscar Piastri remains the outside threat, starting third on the grid and 16 points behind with a much harder task to secure his first world title.
Norris must finish at least third to secure his first world title.
No matter which driver you’re backing, it’s set up to be a thrilling battle to the chequered flag.
– Permutations: How each driver can win – all the scenarios
– Top 3 contenders: How they got here and who’s bound for glory
Follow minute by minute updates of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as Max Verstappen starts from pole in the final race of the 2025 season.
Key points
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Verstappen gets a clean start, leads from pole. Piastri overtakes Norris for P2 on Lap 1
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Liam Lawson gets a 5-sec penalty for driving erratically
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Norris pits and chases down the leaders on fresh tyres; Norris overtakes Yuki Tsunoda, who gets 5-second penalty for ‘more than one change of direction’.
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Alex Albon gets 5-second penalty for speeding in the pitlane; Pierre Gasly gets a 5-second penalty for exceeding track limits
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Lewis Hamilton up to 8th after starting 16th; leclerc up to 4th after starting 5th.
