Max Verstappen claimed pole position for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, setting up a dramatic final race of the season with title rivals Lando Norris starting second and Oscar Piastri third. Norris leads the championship by 12 points over Verstappen and 16 over Piastri, meaning he will become world champion if he finishes third or better, or simply ahead of both rivals. Verstappen must win and hope Norris misses the podium, while Piastri needs victory and Norris to finish sixth or lower.
Verstappen set a 1:22.207 to secure pole, continuing his late-season surge. Norris and Piastri remain firmly in the fight, with McLaren ready to use team orders if necessary. The opening laps could be decisive, with the championship hinging on track position — and potential risk.
Lewis Hamilton endured another difficult day, qualifying only 16th after a practice crash capped off a frustrating season without a podium. All eyes now turn to Sunday’s race, where the title will be decided under the lights in Abu Dhabi.
