The 2024 Formula 1 season concluded with a thrilling Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at the Yas Marina Circuit on December 8, 2024. Lando Norris delivered a stellar performance, clinching victory and securing McLaren’s first Constructors’ Championship since 1998.
Race Summary
Starting from pole position, Norris maintained his lead throughout the 58-lap race, demonstrating exceptional skill and composure. The race commenced dramatically with a first-corner collision between McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, resulting in Piastri dropping to the back of the field. Despite this setback, Piastri showcased resilience by climbing back to finish tenth, contributing a crucial point to McLaren’s championship tally.
Ferrari drivers Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc secured second and third places, respectively, delivering strong performances but falling short in their bid to overtake McLaren in the Constructors’ standings. Sainz’s departure from Ferrari was marked by this commendable podium finish, highlighting his tenure with the team.
Lewis Hamilton, in his final race for Mercedes before transitioning to Ferrari, delivered a remarkable drive from 18th on the grid to finish fourth. His overtaking manoeuvres and strategic prowess underscored his enduring talent and competitive spirit.
Max Verstappen, after the early incident with Piastri, received a 10-second penalty and finished sixth. This result marked a challenging end to his season, contrasting with his previous championship successes.
Full Race Results
- Lando Norris (McLaren) – 1:26:33.291
- Carlos Sainz (Ferrari) – +5.832s
- Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) – +31.928s
- Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) – +36.483s
- George Russell (Mercedes) – +37.538s
- Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing) – +49.847s
- Pierre Gasly (Alpine) – +1:12.560s
- Nico Hülkenberg (Haas) – +1:15.554s
- Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin) – +1:22.373s
- Oscar Piastri (McLaren) – +1:23.821s
- Alexander Albon (Williams) – +1 lap
- Yuki Tsunoda (AlphaTauri) – +1 lap
- Esteban Ocon (Alpine) – +1 lap
- Valtteri Bottas (Alfa Romeo) – +1 lap
- Kevin Magnussen (Haas) – +1 lap
- Lance Stroll (Aston Martin) – +1 lap
- Logan Sargeant (Williams) – +1 lap
- Zhou Guanyu (Alfa Romeo) – +1 lap
- Liam Lawson (AlphaTauri) – +2 laps
- Sergio Pérez (Red Bull Racing) – DNF
This race not only highlighted individual driver achievements but also underscored McLaren’s resurgence as a dominant force in Formula 1. The strategic decisions, driver performances, and team coordination throughout the season culminated in this historic victory, setting a promising precedent for the 2025 season.
Photo credit here, AP Pic.