The 2025 Formula 1 season concludes this weekend at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where the drivers’ championship will be determined in a three way contest involving Lando Norris, Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri. Practice sessions are underway as teams finalize their setups for the final round of the season. Each of the three contenders arrives with a clear mathematical path to the title, although the margins are narrow after recent results.
Lando Norris enters the weekend as the points leader. The McLaren driver retains a 12 point advantage over Max Verstappen, who reduced the gap in Qatar following a win that tightened the standings. Norris’ recent races have included errors and operational setbacks that have limited his ability to extend the lead, which has allowed Verstappen to remain within striking distance.
Max Verstappen’s objective is straightforward. A race win combined with a fourth place finish or lower for Norris would give him a fifth world championship. Verstappen has remained competitive throughout the closing stages of the season and has continued to pressure McLaren through consistent race execution. Red Bull’s preparations for Abu Dhabi reflect the importance of the final race and the strategic discipline required to keep Verstappen in contention.
Oscar Piastri remains mathematically involved in the title fight as well. The McLaren driver is 16 points behind Norris. His continued participation in the championship battle may influence team decisions during the race weekend, depending on the outcome of qualifying and early race performance. Internal team considerations may shape how McLaren approaches race strategy if Piastri’s chances diminish while Norris remains positioned to secure the title.
