Max Verstappen will start the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix from pole, ahead of championship leader Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, setting up a dramatic three-way decider for the 2025 Formula 1 world title.
Norris remains in control despite missing out on pole. He leads Verstappen by 12 points and Piastri by 16, meaning he will be champion if he finishes third or better, or simply stays ahead of both rivals. Verstappen must win and hope Norris misses the podium, while Piastri needs victory and for Norris to finish sixth or lower.
Verstappen set a fastest lap of 1:22.207, continuing his strong late-season form. McLaren have confirmed they will use team orders if necessary to protect Norris’s title bid.
Lewis Hamilton endured another tough day, qualifying only 16th after an earlier practice crash, completing a frustrating season without a podium.
All eyes now turn to Sunday, where clean starts, strategy and nerves could decide everything under the lights in Abu Dhabi.
