2025 F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Qualifying: Start Times and Key Contenders
The 2025 F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix qualifying kicks off today at 13:00 GMT (16:00 local time), with Lando Norris emerging as the favorite after dominant Friday practice sessions. Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri are expected to challenge, as drivers vie for pole position, crucial for a strong race strategy in the season's finale.
The 2025 F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix qualifying session is set to commence today, with all eyes on whether Lando Norris can convert his practice dominance into pole position. After topping both Friday sessions ahead of Max Verstappen, Norris enters as a strong favorite, but the competitive field, including Oscar Piastri, promises a thrilling battle for the crucial grid advantage.
Why it matters:
Securing pole position in Abu Dhabi is often a significant psychological and strategic advantage, especially on a circuit where track position can be vital. With the championship picture potentially still in play, starting from the front row can be the decisive factor in controlling the race and securing maximum points, setting the tone for the season's final showdown.
The details:
- Qualifying Start Time: The qualifying session for the 2025 F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix officially begins today, Saturday, December 6th, at 13:00 GMT, which translates to 16:00 local time in Abu Dhabi.
- Key Contenders:
- Lando Norris is currently the favorite, having consistently shown strong pace by topping both Friday Free Practice sessions.
- Max Verstappen remains a formidable challenger, expected to push Norris hard for pole.
- Oscar Piastri is also in contention, aiming to challenge the frontrunners and secure a strong grid slot.
- Weekend Schedule Overview (All times in GMT):
| Session | Date | Time | | :-------------- | :------------------ | :------------- | | Free Practice 1 | Friday 5 December | 10:30 - 11:30 | | Free Practice 2 | Friday 5 December | 14:00 - 15:00 | | Free Practice 3 | Saturday 6 December | 11:30 - 12:30 | | Qualifying | Saturday 6 December | 15:00 - 16:00 | | Race | Sunday 7 December | 14:00 - 16:00 |
What's next:
Following today's qualifying, all attention will shift to tomorrow's main race event. The grid established today will set the stage for the final battle of the season, with drivers and teams strategizing overnight to optimize their race performance. The outcome of qualifying will heavily influence race day tactics, from tire management to pit stop strategies, as contenders vie for victory in the desert.