P1racenews AI automatic summary:
In an action-packed race, McLaren sealed the Constructors’ Championship at the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. While many drivers excelled under the lights of Yas Marina, others floundered, while some prepared to say goodbye to the sport for good. Here are the winners and losers of the 2024 Abu Dhabi GP.
In the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Lando Norris, starting from Pole Position and finishing in P1, demonstrated a remarkable turnaround in performance after the championship had been settled. By leading the race flawlessly, maintaining pace and tire management, and staying composed under pressure, he secured McLaren’s first Constructors’ title in 26 years and clinched second place in the Drivers’ Championship. His dominant victory showcased his maturity and potential for future sustained title fights, with the need to improve his starts and handle rivals like Verstappen’s aggression.
Oscar Piastri, starting from P2 but finishing in P10, faced an early setback in the race after a collision with Max Verstappen and a subsequent penalty. Despite struggling to pass rivals and only scoring a solitary point, his recovery from the back of the field proved his resilience and potential for the upcoming season. Piastri’s ability to complete every racing lap in 2024 puts him in an elite club with names like Schumacher, Hamilton, Vettel, and Verstappen.
Carlos Sainz, starting from P3 and finishing in P2, missed out on the championship victory despite the early exits of his rivals. His heroic efforts to chase Norris were hampered by tire performance issues, leading to a drop in pace towards the end of the race. Sainz’s determination and skill showcased in Abu Dhabi marked a proud final race in red before his move to Williams to make way for Hamilton.
Starting from P19 and finishing in P3, Charles Leclerc’s spectacular performance in the Abu Dhabi GP impressed fans of McLaren and Ferrari. Storming through the field at a remarkable pace, Leclerc’s drive hinted at future successes for both teams, providing excitement for the upcoming seasons.
