The 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marked a turning point in Formula 1, with Lando Norris crowned world champion for the first time in his career, ending Max Verstappen’s dominance. The British McLaren driver finished third and managed to keep his cool in a race full of tension and strategic manoeuvres that could have jeopardised his lead.
From the start, Norris showed a calculated and mature style, avoiding unnecessary risks. Although he faced pressure at times from drivers such as Charles Leclerc and George Russell, he managed his tyres and pit stops well to maintain his lead until the chequered flag. With this victory, Norris not only enters the history books as the 35th Formula 1 world champion, but also prepares for the 2026 season with the number one on his McLaren, a symbol of pride for the entire team.
Verstappen wins but misses out on the title
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix saw Max Verstappen claim his eighth victory of the season, closing out a brilliant but insufficient year to retain the title, which ended with just a two-point difference between him and Norris. Verstappen remained competitive throughout the race, displaying his usual mastery of the track and relentless pace, although he failed to achieve his ultimate goal.
For his part, Oscar Piastri completed a historic podium for McLaren by finishing second, although his season was more inconsistent and marked by ups and downs. The Abu Dhabi race was full of tension, strategic overtaking and careful management of tyres and pit stops. Charles Leclerc finished fourth, while George Russell closed fifth, showing consistency but unable to threaten the podium. The combination of experience, strategy and consistency saw Norris crowned champion ahead of two rivals who dominated much of the season.
Fernando Alonso ends the year with challenges and hopes for 2026
Fernando Alonso ended the 2025 season in tenth place in the Drivers’ Championship, scoring 56 points and outperforming his teammate Lance Stroll in all direct comparisons. With Aston Martin, the Spanish driver only managed to score points in 10 of the 24 races and suffered five retirements, reflecting the difficulties of a car that was complicated to drive.
However, Alonso was optimistic about 2026, confident in the new car designed by Adrian Newey. ‘With a more normal car… I would finish first,’ joked the two-time world champion when asked about his expectations. At 44, Alonso makes it clear that he is not satisfied with 2025, but that he still has the ambition and motivation to compete at the highest level next season.
