Max Verstappen capped off a remarkable and record-breaking Formula 1 season on Sunday, clinching a commanding victory at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, marking his 19th triumph of the year for Red Bull.
The three-time world champion finished nearly 18 seconds ahead of Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc. While Sergio Perez initially crossed the line in second place, a post-race penalty dropped him to fourth, elevating George Russell to third.
Mercedes secured the runner-up spot in the constructors’ championship by a slim three-point margin over Ferrari. Verstappen, concluding the season as the sole driver to complete every lap, expressed his emotions on the in-lap, bidding farewell to the car pivotal to his success.
Russell, now in third following Perez’s penalty, acknowledged the tension at the race’s end, with concerns about tyre degradation. Leclerc, strategically slowing down to assist Perez in finishing ahead of Russell, expressed regret that it wasn’t enough for Ferrari to secure second place in the constructors’ championship.
The Abu Dhabi race started in hot conditions, with Verstappen defending his pole position against early challenges from Leclerc. The Dutchman maintained control, leading most of the laps and showcasing consistency throughout the season, breaking Jim Clark’s 1963 record for the highest percentage of laps led.
Yuki Tsunoda’s time at the front, the second instance of a Japanese driver leading a Formula One race, added excitement. However, Verstappen regained control and secured his 19th win, highlighting Red Bull’s dominance.
As the season wrapped up, Hamilton made a late move to finish ninth, influencing the constructors’ championship standings. Despite the drama, Verstappen’s dominance and Red Bull’s success defined the final race of the season.
