Motor Racing
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Preview: Constructors’ Championship goes to the wire
As the curtain falls on another thrilling Formula 1 season, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix promises a fitting finale at the iconic Yas Marina Circuit.
With its blend of sweeping corners, long straights, and a breathtaking twilight-to-night transition, this event is set to deliver drama, speed, and emotional farewells.
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Ferrari vs McLaren
The fight for supremacy between Ferrari and McLaren has been one of the standout narratives this season. Both teams have shown remarkable progress, reigniting a rivalry that reminds fans of the golden days of Formula 1. The stakes could not be higher, with both teams still in with a chance of winning the Constructors’ Championship.
Ferrari arrive in Abu Dhabi with momentum. Charles Leclerc’s consistency and Carlos Sainz’s ability to deliver under pressure have shaped the Scuderia into a formidable force. Their SF-24 has demonstrated impressive straight-line speed, which could prove advantageous on Yas Marina’s two lengthy DRS zones.
However, McLaren’s resurgence in the latter half of the season has been nothing short of spectacular. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have pushed the MCL38 to its limits, extracting performance that many didn’t expect earlier in the year. McLaren’s strength lies in their car’s aerodynamic efficiency, which could give them an edge in the circuit’s technical third sector. McLaren are strong favourites to win the Constructors Championship, priced at 1/7, compared to Ferrari at 4/1.
Lewis Hamilton: The End of an Era
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will also mark the end of an era as Lewis Hamilton prepares for his final race with Mercedes. The seven-time world champion’s departure from the team he helped elevate to unprecedented heights has sent shockwaves through the paddock.
Hamilton’s partnership with Mercedes has been a tale of dominance, innovation, and resilience. From 2014’s hybrid era breakthrough to his record-equalling seventh title in 2020, Hamilton’s time with the Silver Arrows is etched in Formula 1 history. However, this season has been a challenging one, with the team unable to consistently match the frontrunners.
As he takes to the Yas Marina Circuit one last time in Mercedes colors, Hamilton will undoubtedly aim to end his stint on a high. The Briton has fond memories of this venue, including his title-clinching performances in 2014 and 2019. Fans can expect a spirited drive as he bids farewell to the team that has been his home for a decade and 10/1 odds of winning the race might pique the interest of some fans.
Max Verstappen and George Russell
Verstappen and Russell carry some extra baggage heading into the final event of the year, after the events that transpired in weeks prior. The Red Bull driver voiced his unhappiness at Russell after his involvement in Verstappen’s demotion from pole position ahead of the race in Qatar, saying he had “lost all respect” for the Briton. The stewards concluded that Verstappen impeded Russell by “driving unnecessarily slowly” as the drivers prepared for the final laps. Verstappen went on to win the race and will look to end his 2024 season on a high in Abu Dhabi, priced at 2/1 to win.
