Lando Norris Shocks the Field at 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Practice Session!
In a thrilling start to the 2025 Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Lando Norris has sent shockwaves through the paddock by narrowly defeating reigning champion Max Verstappen in the first practice session. With a jaw-dropping time of 1:24.485, Norris showcased his prowess behind the wheel, finishing a mere 0.008 seconds ahead of Verstappen’s formidable Red Bull.
As the tension mounts in the F1 world, the McLaren driver’s performance has ignited the championship race, leaving Verstappen and his team scrambling to respond. Adding to the drama, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc was hot on their heels, clocking in just 0.016 seconds behind the Dutchman, proving that the competition is fiercer than ever.
Here’s how the top drivers stacked up in the opening practice:
1. Lando Norris (McLaren) – 1:24.485 2. Max Verstappen (Red Bull) – 0.008 3. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) – 0.016 4. Andrea Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) – 0.123 5. Nico Hulkenberg (Sauber) – 0.144 6. George Russell (Mercedes) – 0.248 7. Gabriel Bortoleto (Sauber) – 0.257 8. Oliver Bearman (Haas) – 0.274 9. Carlos Sainz (Williams) – 0.286 10. Franco Colapinto (Alpine) – 0.370 11. Ryo Hirakawa (Haas) – 0.449 12. Isack Hadjar (Racing Bulls) – 0.492 13. Paul Aron (Alpine) – 0.719 14. Pato O’Ward (McLaren) – 0.761 15. Arvid Lindblad (Red Bull) – 0.771 16. Arthur Leclerc (Ferrari) – 0.875 17. Ayumu Iwasa (Racing Bulls) – 0.990 18. Luke Browning (Williams) – 1.005 19. Jak Crawford (Aston Martin) – 1.404 20. Cian Shields (Aston Martin) – 1.947
The atmosphere at the Yas Marina Circuit was electric as drivers took to the track, each vying for supremacy in what promises to be an exhilarating weekend of racing. With Norris’s impressive display, McLaren fans have every reason to be optimistic, while the pressure builds on Verstappen to reclaim his top position ahead of the upcoming qualifying rounds.
As the teams analyze their performance data, one thing is clear: the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is set to be a nail-biting showdown as the battle for the championship intensifies. Will Norris maintain his momentum, or will Verstappen strike back with a vengeance? Only time will tell!
Stay tuned for more updates as we gear up for the next thrilling chapter in this high-octane season!
