F1 2025 Abu Dhabi GP: Friday Press Conference Highlights
The F1 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is poised for a thrilling title decider, with McLaren and Red Bull team principals discussing driver mentality, team orders, and the season's reflections. Zak Brown confirmed McLaren's initial equal opportunity policy, with potential team orders if one driver gains a clear championship advantage, while Laurent Mekies highlighted Max Verstappen's calm approach amidst Red Bull's remarkable comeback. The race promises high-stakes action as both teams aim for a clean, strategic battle to crown the 2025 champion.
The F1 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is set to be a thrilling title decider, with team principals Zak Brown (McLaren), Laurent Mekies (Red Bull Racing), and Jonathan Wheatley (Kick Sauber) sharing insights on driver mentality, team strategies, and season reflections during Friday's press conference. Both McLaren and Red Bull are bracing for a high-stakes weekend, emphasizing clean racing while preparing for strategic decisions as the championship battle unfolds.
Why it matters:
The 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marks a historic triple-threat championship showdown, with two McLaren drivers challenging four-time World Champion Max Verstappen. This battle isn't just about individual glory; it reflects McLaren's resurgence and Red Bull's unwavering pursuit of excellence, promising an electrifying conclusion to a spectacular season for the sport.
The details:
- McLaren's Stance on Team Orders: Zak Brown confirmed McLaren will begin the race with both drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, having equal opportunities to win. However, he stated that if the race's dynamics make it clear one driver has a significantly better chance at the championship, the team will prioritize winning the Drivers' Championship, potentially employing team orders. Brown expressed confidence that both drivers would comply with team wishes.
- He clarified that this isn't a U-turn, referencing a similar situation last year in Baku where Oscar Piastri ended up winning with Lando Norris's support after initial team requests.
- Verstappen's Calm Demeanor: Laurent Mekies and Jonathan Wheatley both noted Max Verstappen's incredible relaxation, attributing it to his experience in title fights and Red Bull's 'race-by-race' approach. Mekies highlighted Verstappen's consistent, mistake-free driving, which instills confidence throughout the team.
- Red Bull's Comeback: Mekies emphasized that Red Bull's impressive second-half season turnaround was due to the 2,000 dedicated staff in Milton Keynes who refused to give up, continuously developing the car and taking calculated risks. This collective effort, he noted, created a strong, united group.
- Sauber's Legacy: Jonathan Wheatley expressed pride in being part of Sauber's journey, especially with Peter Sauber present at the final race under the Sauber name. He aims for the team to honor its legacy as it transitions into the Audi F1 Team.
- Addressing Criticism: Brown dismissed external 'bias' or 'favoritism' allegations as uninformed, stating that McLaren focuses on internal operations and team unity. He also reaffirmed McLaren's commitment to giving both drivers equal opportunity, while continuously reviewing and evolving their racing strategies.
- Yuki Tsunoda's Future: Laurent Mekies acknowledged the difficult decision to let Yuki Tsunoda go from a Red Bull seat but expressed hope for his return to F1, noting his role as a reserve driver in 2026. He praised Tsunoda's development and resilient mindset.
What's next:
McLaren and Red Bull are set to execute their strategies in what promises to be an epic final race. With the championship on the line, both teams are prepared for a strategic battle, aiming to manage the intense pressure while their drivers deliver their best. The outcome will not only crown a new champion but also shape the narratives and ambitions for the 2026 season, especially for teams like Sauber transitioning into new eras.