Race Notes | 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix | Epi #155 | Title Decider, Smart Strategy & Farewell to Ground Effect F1

Three contenders, one final shot. At Yas Marina, Max Verstappen did everything he could, Oscar Piastri delivered under pressure, and Lando Norris brought it home exactly where he needed to to finally clinch the drivers’ championship.

In this solo race notes episode, Dick breaks down how McLaren’s Abu Dhabi strategy contrasted sharply with their Las Vegas and Qatar missteps, why Lando’s race management and pit timing were spot on, and how Max still ended the year with the most wins. He also spotlights standout drives from Charles Leclerc, Lewis Hamilton, and Fernando Alonso, reflects on the physical toll of the ground‑effect era, and looks ahead to 2026 testing, tyre changes, and young driver outings for Pato O’Ward and Jak Crawford.

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