Rosberg Warns Verstappen, Norris of Hamilton's 2016 Tactic in Abu Dhabi Finale
The Formula 1 season finale in Abu Dhabi sees Max Verstappen on pole, but Lando Norris, starting second, needs only a podium to clinch his first World Championship. Nico Rosberg warns of a potential Hamilton-like slowing tactic by Verstappen, while McLaren's Oscar Piastri, starting third, remains a wildcard, setting up a three-way title fight and a high-stakes strategic showdown.
The stage is set for a dramatic Formula 1 season finale in Abu Dhabi. Max Verstappen secured pole position, but Lando Norris holds a crucial advantage from P2, with McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri in P3. A podium finish would be enough for Norris to clinch his first World Championship, setting up a high-stakes showdown.
Why it matters:
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix isn't just another race; it's a winner-takes-all championship decider with three drivers in contention. Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, and Oscar Piastri all have a mathematical chance at the title. The strategic implications, especially surrounding potential team orders and defensive driving tactics, could lead to a truly memorable and controversial race, reminiscent of past F1 finales.
The Details:
- Norris's Strong Qualifying: Despite immense pressure, Lando Norris qualified P2, a testament to his composure, as noted by 2016 World Champion Nico Rosberg. Rosberg praised Norris, stating, "Biggest respect for Lando. Under all the pressure, he still put in a good lap."
- Verstappen's Pole Position: Max Verstappen starts from pole, but this alone isn't enough to secure the championship. He needs to win and for Norris to finish fourth or lower.
- Rosberg's 2016 Parallel: Nico Rosberg drew parallels to the 2016 season finale, where Lewis Hamilton strategically slowed the pace to allow other cars to challenge Rosberg, hoping to knock him off the podium. Rosberg suggested Verstappen might try a similar tactic: "Max's best chance is probably to hold up the whole field."
- Track Changes: Rosberg, however, tempered expectations for a repeat of Hamilton's tactic, noting that the Abu Dhabi track has changed significantly since 2016, with two corners altered making overtaking easier. "Max will have to put in a masterclass," he added.
- McLaren's Strategic Advantage: McLaren's double threat with Norris in P2 and Piastri in P3 gives them strategic flexibility. Norris could even let Piastri pass if it helps secure the championship, with the understanding that Piastri would reciprocate later if needed.
- Verstappen's Mindset: Verstappen remains calm, stating, "I have nothing to lose and will give everything." He acknowledges the difficulty of a Hamilton-esque maneuver due to modern aerodynamic effects but hopes for "chaos in the race, but hopefully not because of me. When the pressure is high, I perform. I like that."
- McLaren Team Orders: While McLaren is prepared to use team orders if necessary, Piastri admitted he hasn't been fully briefed yet: "I don't know exactly what's expected of me yet." He emphasized the need for pre-race discussions, noting that "funny things have happened" in past championship finales.
What's Next:
The championship scenarios are clear, setting the stage for a tense race where every position counts.
- Norris becomes World Champion if... he finishes third or higher.
- Verstappen becomes World Champion if... he wins and Norris finishes fourth or lower.
- Piastri becomes World Champion if... he wins and Norris finishes sixth or lower.
The final race is poised to be a tactical battle, with team strategies and individual performances under extreme pressure determining who will be crowned the 2025 Formula 1 World Champion.