F1 Drivers Gather for Annual Abu Dhabi Dinner, Three Drivers Absent
F1 drivers continued their annual tradition with a pre-Abu Dhabi GP dinner, attended by 17 of 20 competitors. Lewis Hamilton hosted, sharing a photo and expressing gratitude for his fellow racers. Nico Hulkenberg, Fernando Alonso, and Lance Stroll were notably absent. The gathering underscored the unique camaraderie in F1, especially significant with Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, and Oscar Piastri all present as they head into the final, championship-deciding race.
Formula 1 drivers upheld their annual tradition of gathering for a pre-race dinner ahead of the final Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi, with 17 of the 20 competitors attending. Lewis Hamilton, who typically hosts and covers the expense, shared a photo of the 'Class of 2025' on Instagram, expressing gratitude and respect for his fellow racers. Notably absent from the group photo were Nico Hulkenberg, Fernando Alonso, and Lance Stroll.
Why it matters:
This annual dinner signifies a unique camaraderie among Formula 1 drivers, who, despite fierce competition on track, share a bond born from their extraordinary profession. It's a moment of collective reflection and mutual respect before the season's final intense battle, highlighting the human element in a high-stakes sport.
The details:
- Attendance: 17 of the 20 drivers participating in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix were present.
- Absentees: Nico Hulkenberg, Fernando Alonso, and Lance Stroll were not in the official group photo.
- Host: Lewis Hamilton organized the dinner and traditionally covers the bill, reinforcing his role as a respected elder statesman in the paddock.
- Hamilton's Message: On Instagram, Hamilton wrote, "Class of 2025. We're the only people in the world to do what we do, and for that, we're incredibly lucky. I'm grateful for this group of drivers I have the privilege of racing against, and even though we're competitors, there's nothing but respect, and I'm proud to call them friends. Hope to give you all a great last race of the season."
- Championship Contenders Present: All three title contenders—Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, and Oscar Piastri—were in attendance, adding an intriguing dynamic just days before the championship decider.
The big picture:
The Abu Dhabi dinner serves as a poignant closing event for the F1 season, showcasing the tight-knit community among drivers. While the on-track rivalries are intense, these off-track gatherings underscore a shared journey and mutual admiration. This year's dinner takes on extra significance with three drivers—Verstappen, Norris, and Piastri—still in contention for the championship, adding an undercurrent of anticipation to the friendly gathering.
What's next:
The focus now shifts entirely to the track. Max Verstappen aims to clinch his record-equalling fifth consecutive title, Lando Norris seeks to become the 35th F1 world champion, and Oscar Piastri hopes to become Australia's third champion. The season finale promises a dramatic conclusion to an exhilarating year, with the drivers' camaraderie from dinner temporarily set aside for the ultimate prize.