The FIA presidential election will proceed on December 12 with Mohammed Ben Sulayem running unopposed, despite a Paris court ruling that a full trial is needed to address allegations of irregularities from former candidate Laura Villars. The legal challenge, set for February 2026, could potentially annul the election's validity, raising significant questions about the legitimacy of Ben Sulayem's expected second term and the FIA's electoral transparency.
Nico Hülkenberg's 250th Grand Prix weekend began with a disastrous Q1 exit in Abu Dhabi qualifying, leaving the German F1 star to start 18th. Despite showing strong pace in practice, a critical team timing error led to heavy traffic on his flying lap. This setback puts pressure on Sauber's Constructors' Championship hopes and Hülkenberg's personal goal for a top-10 finish, overshadowing his significant career milestone.
Oscar Piastri, starting third in Abu Dhabi, is banking on unexpected race events for his long-shot F1 title bid. Despite a 16-point deficit, Piastri remains optimistic, drawing on past title shocks. McLaren leadership believes the team is well-positioned for a dramatic showdown, emphasizing execution as key to their championship hopes against Max Verstappen and teammate Lando Norris.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff apologized to Red Bull after rookie Kimi Antonelli was unsafely released into Yuki Tsunoda's path in the pit lane during the final practice session of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The collision resulted in significant damage to both cars and led to a €10,000 fine for Mercedes, highlighting procedural issues in a crucial session.
The 2025 Formula 1 season culminates in Abu Dhabi with a thrilling three-way title fight. Lando Norris, leading by 12 points, needs a podium finish to secure his first championship. Max Verstappen, starting from pole, must win and hope Norris finishes fourth or lower. Oscar Piastri also has an outside chance. McLaren's dominance is evident, having already secured the Constructors' title.
Max Verstappen clinched pole in Abu Dhabi, leveraging strategic car adjustments and aggressive driving to outperform McLarens. His ability to manage tires and master challenging corners highlights Red Bull's strong form. The championship now hinges on race day strategy and performance, with tire choices and potential pit stop variations setting the stage for a thrilling finale.
Yuki Tsunoda described providing a crucial tow to Max Verstappen during Abu Dhabi Q3 as "very stressful" but ultimately successful, helping Verstappen secure pole. Despite pre-qualifying car damage forcing him to use older parts, Tsunoda expertly executed the maneuver, earning praise from Red Bull and highlighting the intricate team coordination essential in F1.
Valtteri Bottas made an emotional, yet characteristically humorous, farewell to Mercedes in his final 'F1 Explains' video as he prepares for his move to the Cadillac F1 team in 2026. The popular Finnish driver shared heartfelt goodbyes with his team, reflecting on his time with Mercedes and the bonds formed in Formula 1, all delivered with his signature sarcastic wit. His transition to the new 11th team on the grid alongside Sergio Perez marks an exciting new chapter for his career and the sport.
Max Verstappen and Red Bull Racing have perfectly executed their qualifying strategy, putting immense pressure on Lando Norris and McLaren for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Starting from pole, Verstappen aims to exploit Norris's historical starting struggles and potentially use strategic race tactics to force Norris into a P4 finish or lower, a crucial outcome for the championship. The race promises high-stakes drama with McLaren's consistency under pressure being tested.
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.
Lewis Hamilton expressed "unbearable anger and rage" after a dismal Abu Dhabi GP weekend saw him crash and exit Q1, marking his fourth consecutive early qualifying elimination. This season is his first in 18 years without a podium, raising serious questions about his form and Ferrari's struggles. Former team-mates and experts suggest the situation is "scary," highlighting the urgent need for a turnaround for both driver and team.
Oscar Piastri confirmed upcoming discussions with McLaren about potential team orders for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Both Piastri and Lando Norris are technically still in contention for the Drivers' Championship against Max Verstappen, with McLaren CEO Zak Brown indicating a willingness to implement team orders if it clarifies a championship path for one driver.
