Who Will Claim the 2025 F1 World Championship in Abu Dhabi?

Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, and Oscar Piastri head into the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix with a shot at the 2025 Formula 1 world championship. In a season-long battle that has seen all three drivers lead at various points, it all comes down to the finale. Norris currently leads Verstappen by 12 points, with Piastri 16 points behind his McLaren teammate.

Why it matters:

This championship fight is a testament to the unpredictable and thrilling nature of Formula 1. With three drivers still in contention at the final race, it guarantees a dramatic conclusion to what has been an exceptional season. For Norris, it's a chance to secure his maiden F1 title; for Verstappen, a fifth consecutive championship would cement his legendary status; and for Piastri, an underdog victory would be a stunning achievement in only his second season.

The details:

• Close Contention: After 23 Grands Prix and six sprint races, only 16 points separate the top three drivers, setting the stage for a tense finale.
• Norris's Lead: Lando Norris holds a 12-point advantage over Max Verstappen and a 16-point lead over Oscar Piastri.
• McLaren's Home Stretch: McLaren's pair has been inconsistent, leading some to believe they should have clinched the title earlier. Despite this, the Yas Marina circuit, with its medium-to-high-speed corners, is expected to suit McLaren, as demonstrated by Norris's pole position and dominant performance there last year.
• Verstappen's Resilience: Max Verstappen has consistently maximized his Red Bull's performance. Despite a significant deficit earlier in the season, Red Bull's post-summer improvements, particularly since Zandvoort, have seen Verstappen close the gap dramatically.
• Piastri's Opportunity: Oscar Piastri is the outsider, needing significant drama to unfold between Norris and Verstappen to claim the title. A scenario where the top two make contact or suffer penalties could open the door for Piastri to capitalize, especially given the challenges of overtaking at Abu Dhabi.

Between the lines:

Motorsport.com writers offer differing opinions on the outcome:

• Ed Hardy favors Norris: He believes it would take a significant blunder from Norris or McLaren to lose the championship, citing Norris's 12-point buffer and the track's suitability for McLaren. A podium finish would be enough for Norris even if Verstappen wins.
• Owen Bellwood sees Piastri's chance in chaos: Bellwood suggests that Verstappen is likely to inject chaos into the race, potentially leading to contact or penalties for both Norris and Verstappen. This scenario would leave Piastri in a prime position to snatch the title if he wins and Norris finishes outside the top six.
• Jake Boxall-Legge backs Verstappen: Sticking to his pre-season prediction, Boxall-Legge highlights Verstappen's ability to perform under pressure and Red Bull's improved car since Zandvoort. He also points out Red Bull's strategic advantage of focusing solely on Verstappen's championship, unlike McLaren, which must manage two drivers in contention.

What's next:

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix promises an electrifying conclusion to the 2025 F1 season. All eyes will be on Norris to see if he can convert his lead into a maiden world title, or if Verstappen can complete an incredible turnaround, or if Piastri can seize a chaotic opportunity.