Verstappen's Cheeky Reply as Title Rivals Reveal Finale Prep

Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, and Oscar Piastri have outlined their differing approaches to the Formula 1 season finale in Abu Dhabi, with Verstappen offering a characteristically relaxed and humorous take on his preparations.

Why it matters:

As the 2024 F1 season culminates in Abu Dhabi, the mindset and preparation of the sport's top drivers offer a glimpse into their individual approaches to high-stakes competition. While Norris and Piastri describe conventional pre-race routines, Verstappen's nonchalant response underscores his confidence and focus beyond the immediate Grand Prix.

The Details:

• Lando Norris's Consistent Approach: The McLaren driver stated his preparation remains "the same as every weekend." He emphasized routine reviews of the previous race, focusing on team mistakes and areas for improvement, without any special treatment for the season finale.
• Max Verstappen's Relaxed Priorities: Verstappen offered a 'cheeky' reply, claiming he spent his time with his daughter, and focused on planning for his GT3 and sim racing teams for the next year. This seemingly casual approach highlights his established dominance, having already secured the championship.
  • "I figured some stuff out for GT3 next year, figured out some stuff for my sim team as well," Verstappen quipped, showcasing his diverse motorsport interests.
• Oscar Piastri's Routine Week: Piastri's week leading up to the race involved padel practice and marketing activities, echoing Norris's sentiment that it was treated as a normal race week, despite the season-ending significance.

The Big Picture:

This divergence in pre-race attitudes reflects the different pressures and positions of each driver heading into Abu Dhabi. For Norris and Piastri, every race is an opportunity to maximize performance and secure valuable points for their teams, hence their focused, consistent routines. For Verstappen, who has already clinched the title, the pressure is off, allowing for a more relaxed approach and the freedom to joke about his off-track endeavors.

What's next:

While the drivers are focused on their individual performances, the broader F1 community will be watching how these varying approaches translate on track in Abu Dhabi. The finale will not only decide the constructors' battle but also provide a final look at the competitive landscape before the winter break. Liam Lawson, for instance, has already tipped Verstappen to continue his dominance into 2025, highlighting the Red Bull driver's enduring form.