Norris Edges Verstappen in Abu Dhabi FP1 as Piastri Sits Out

Lando Norris topped the first practice session in Abu Dhabi, just 0.008 seconds ahead of Max Verstappen, whose session was hampered by car issues. Championship contender Oscar Piastri missed the session, making way for rookie Pato O'Ward.

Why it matters:

McLaren's strong start to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend, particularly Norris's pace, suggests they could be a significant threat in the final race of the season. For Verstappen, early car troubles are a rare blip but highlight the constant technical challenges even for dominant teams. Piastri's absence also underscores the F1's rookie rules, which impact key drivers at crucial junctures.

The details:

• Norris's Narrow Lead: Lando Norris secured the fastest time, clocking in at 1:25.207, a mere 0.008 seconds quicker than Max Verstappen. This tight margin indicates the competitive nature at the front of the field.
• Verstappen's Troubles: Max Verstappen reported his car was "broken" over team radio in the final stages of the session, despite completing his runs. This issue prevented him from fully maximizing his lap times.
• Piastri's Absence: Oscar Piastri, a key championship contender, did not participate in FP1. His car was allocated to rookie Pato O'Ward as part of the mandatory young driver practice sessions required by F1 regulations. O'Ward finished 13th.
• Rookie Showcase: Nine rookie drivers participated in the session, with all of them finishing outside the top 10. Ryo Hirakawa (Toyota) was the fastest rookie in 11th place.
• Leclerc's Struggles: Charles Leclerc finished third for Ferrari but spun at the hairpin late in the session, complaining of "zero grip."
• Haas's Woes: Oliver Bearman, driving for Haas, experienced sensor issues early on, which eventually led to the car being retired from the session after a brief return to the track.
• Other Notables: Kimi Antonelli impressed in fourth for Mercedes. Nico Hulkenberg (Haas) and Gabriel Bortoleto (McLaren) were fifth and seventh, respectively, sandwiching George Russell (Mercedes) in sixth. Carlos Sainz (Ferrari) was ninth.

What's next:

The teams will analyze the data from this session to prepare for FP2, where the full-time drivers will return. Resolving Verstappen's car issues will be a priority for Red Bull. Piastri's return to the cockpit will be closely watched to see if he can quickly get up to speed after missing the opening session. The close margins at the top suggest that qualifying and the race could be intensely competitive, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the season in Abu Dhabi.