Final Starting Grid Set for Abu Dhabi GP with Three-Way Title Fight
Max Verstappen starts from pole position for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with championship leader Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri directly behind him. All three drivers, tied on seven wins each this season, have a mathematical shot at the 2025 world title in the final race.
The stage is set for a dramatic three-way championship decider as the final starting grid for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix confirms Max Verstappen on pole, with title rivals Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri lining up directly behind him. Norris leads the standings by 12 points over Verstappen, with Piastri a further four points back, setting up a winner-takes-all scenario at the Yas Marina Circuit.
Why it matters:
The 2025 season finale features a rare and intense three-driver showdown for the championship, with all contenders starting from the front three grid slots. Verstappen's pole position is crucial for his bid to win a historic fifth consecutive title, requiring a victory and for Norris to finish off the podium. This race could cap one of the greatest comebacks in F1 history, as Verstappen has overturned a 104-point deficit to put himself in contention.
The details:
- Championship Standings: Lando Norris enters the race leading with 408 points. Max Verstappen is second with 396 points, and Oscar Piastri is third with 392 points.
- Grid Order: The top ten is led by Max Verstappen (Red Bull), followed by Lando Norris (McLaren), Oscar Piastri (McLaren), George Russell (Mercedes), Charles Leclerc (Ferrari), Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin), Gabriel Bortoleto (RB), Esteban Ocon (Alpine), Isack Hadjar (Haas), and Yuki Tsunoda (RB).
- Title Scenarios: Verstappen must win and hope Norris finishes fourth or lower. Piastri's chances are more remote, requiring a specific combination of results to claim the title.
- Season Context: Remarkably, all three title contenders have won seven races each during the 2025 season, highlighting the competitive balance at the front.
What's next:
The 58-lap Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will decide the 2025 World Champion. With clear air off the line, Verstappen will aim to control the race from the front, while Norris and Piastri in the closely-matched McLarens will look to apply immediate pressure. Strategy, tire management, and potential safety cars will be decisive factors in the final battle of a thrilling season.