Under the floodlights of Yas Marina, the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix delivered the final chapter of a tense and emotional championship battle. Max Verstappen crossed the line first, executing a flawless race — but it was Lando Norris, finishing third, who claimed the ultimate prize: the 2025 Formula 1 World Championship.
Race Start & Opening Stints
The lights went out with Verstappen holding firm into Turn 1, while Oscar Piastri slotted comfortably into second. Norris maintained position in third, avoiding any early drama and placing himself immediately in the championship-winning zone.
Behind the leaders, Charles Leclerc and George Russell fought aggressively for fourth, while Lewis Hamilton’s final race for Ferrari saw him struggle for pace in the early laps.
Mid-Race Strategy: McLaren Splits the Deck
McLaren rolled out a dual-strategy play:
- Piastri on the aggressive plan, attempting an undercut on Verstappen
- Norris on the safer, long-run strategy, preserving tyre life early
As the race unfolded, Verstappen neutralized Piastri’s undercut while Norris kept a steady rhythm, always inside the top three — the magic position that guaranteed him the title.
By Lap 35, McLaren shifted fully behind Norris. Piastri, while still fighting for the race win, gave space when required to secure Norris’ strategic cushion.
Final Phase: Verstappen Pulls Away, Norris Holds the Golden Position
The last 20 laps saw Verstappen stretch a comfortable lead over Piastri, while Norris kept a controlled distance behind his teammate, ensuring no risks in the closing laps.
Behind them:
- Leclerc defended brilliantly to hold off Russell
- Hamilton finished outside the podium but earned applause in his final Ferrari appearance
- Sainz retired late with power unit issues
But the biggest celebration was happening in the McLaren garage.
Finish: The Race Goes to Max — The Championship to Norris
Final top 3:
- Max Verstappen – Red Bull
- Oscar Piastri – McLaren
- Lando Norris – McLaren
As Norris crossed the line, McLaren erupted — their first driver’s title since Lewis Hamilton in 2008.









