Lando Norris Secures Championship, Ferrari Falls Short

Lando Norris clinched McLaren’s first Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship in 26 years with a dominant victory at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Leading from start to finish, Norris secured his fourth win of the season ensuring McLaren edged Ferrari by 14 points despite Ferrari’s strong second and third-place finishes by Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc. Leclerc’s remarkable charge from 19th on the grid kept tensions high with the championship at stake if Norris had faltered.

Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton took fourth in his final race for Mercedes, passing teammate George Russell in a thrilling last-lap move. Afterward, Hamilton performed celebratory doughnuts reflected with his car and congratulated Norris and McLaren. McLaren’s nerves were tested early when Norris’ teammate, Oscar Piastri was spun to the back by Max Verstappen in Turn One. Verstappen received a 10-second penalty leaving Norris as McLaren’s sole hope.

Leclerc’s electrifying first lap saw him gain 11 positions, setting up a formidable climb through the field to third. Despite his efforts, Lando Norris maintained control, finishing six seconds ahead of Sainz and clinching the title for McLaren. The victory also secured Norris second in the drivers’ standings, behind Verstappen and ahead of Leclerc. It marked a turnaround for McLaren, who last won a Constructors’ title in 1998.

Years of restructuring, led by Zak Brown and team principal Andrea Stella have restored McLaren to contention, positioning them as 2025 favorites. Hamilton’s strong final race showcased his skill as he climbed from 16th using a clever strategy and overtook Russell for fourth on the final lap. After 12 years with Mercedes, he departed with gratitude, reflecting on their historic success. Verstappen, Gasly and Hulkenberg rounded out the top finishers while Piastri recovered to claim the final point for McLaren.