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Lando Norris Edges Max Verstappen By 0.008 Seconds In Abu Dhabi GP First Practice

Title contenders Lando Norris and Max Verstappen set the pace in the first practice session at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, ending the day tied at the very top of the timesheets.

Norris, in his McLaren, edged Verstappen’s Red Bull by a mere 0.008 seconds, while Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc came in third, followed by Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli in fourth.

Championship Scenarios

Norris currently leads Verstappen by 12 points heading into the season finale. The Briton can secure his first Formula 1 World Championship if he finishes on the podium, regardless of other results.

Conversely, Verstappen will claim the title if he wins the race and Norris finishes lower than third.

Meanwhile, Norris’ team-mate Oscar Piastri, 16 points behind, faces a steep challenge to become champion. He sat out the first session as IndyCar driver Pato O’Ward completed one of McLaren’s mandatory rookie runs.

Session Context

The first practice in Abu Dhabi is known for being unrepresentative, as it runs in daylight while qualifying and the race occur at twilight, transitioning into night. Many teams opted to run rookie drivers, with only Mercedes and Sauber fielding both of their race drivers.

Leclerc’s performance was promising for Ferrari, finishing just 0.016 seconds off the pace. He shared the session with his brother, Arthur Leclerc, adding to the rookie experience.

As the season reaches its climax, all eyes will be on Norris, Verstappen, and Piastri as they battle for the ultimate prize in a thrilling Abu Dhabi finale.