The 2025 Formula 1 season finale is here, and the Drivers’ Championship remains alive heading into the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at the stunning Yas Marina Circuit. With just 16 points separating Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, and Oscar Piastri, it’s all to play for under the floodlights in one of motorsport’s most iconic modern venues.
Let’s take a closer look at how things stand heading into the decider, plus our betting insights and suggested plays for the weekend.
PREVIOUS RACE –Qatar GP
The Qatar Grand Prix proved another turning point in this thrilling season. McLaren started strong with first and third in the sprint, both drivers finishing ahead of Verstappen, but a tactical misstep in Sunday’s race cost them dearly.
After qualifying 1–2, McLaren’s race strategy faltered, allowing Max Verstappen to claim victory ahead of Oscar Piastri in second, with Lando Norris crossing the line fourth. As a result, just 16 points separate the top three in the standings heading into Abu Dhabi.
CHAMPIONSHIP UPDATE
Lando Norris 408 points
Max Verstappen 396 points
Oscar Piastri 392 points
Norris holds the upper hand and needs only a podium finish to seal his maiden World Championship. Verstappen, however, still has a realistic shot but he must outscore Norris by 13 points to take a fifth consecutive crown. Piastri remains in mathematical contention but requires an unlikely set of circumstances.
- Lando Norris – 1.33
- Max Verstappen – 3.50
- Oscar Piastri – 13.00
Click here for Drivers Championship Betting
Track Guide – Yas Marina Circuit
The Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi is one of Formula 1’s most spectacular venues, hosting the traditional season-ending race since 2009. Set on Yas Island, the track is renowned for its unique twilight-to-night transition, combining a sunset start with a floodlit finish.
Circuit Facts
- Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Circuit length: 5.281 km
- Race distance: 58 laps (≈306 km)
- Direction: Counter-clockwise
- Top speed: ~330 km/h
- Corners: 16 (including a revised layout since 2021 for better overtaking)
- Lap record: 1:26.103 (Max Verstappen, 2021)
Layout & Driving Challenges
- Fast-flowing design: The reprofiled Turns 5, 9, and 13 have improved flow and created more overtaking chances than in earlier years.
- Braking and traction: The long back straight followed by heavy braking zones test rear stability and tyre management.
- Setup balance: Teams must find the right mix between straight-line speed and grip in the technical final sector through the marina.
- Tyre wear: Moderate, with strategy typically revolving around a one-stop medium-to-hard compound approach.
- Weather: Evening conditions are warm and stable (~27°C), with negligible chance of rain.
The circuit rewards cars with strong aerodynamic efficiency, and historically, teams like Red Bull and McLaren have thrived here.
Abu Dhabi GP 2024
Norris was able to get it right last year as he comfortably won the race. Carlos Sainz grabbed second place while Charles Leclerc finished in third. Verstappen did not have the best day, only finishing in sixth while Piastri was only able to finish in tenth place.
BETTING (To win outright Abu Dhabi GP 2025) – Click here to bet
Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing) 2.20
Lando Norris (Mclaren) 3.50
Oscar Piastri (Mclaren) 4.50
George Russell (Mercedes) 11.00
Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) 19.00
Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) 41.00
All prices correct at the time of writing but are subject to change
Verdict & Suggested Bets
Race Winner
Despite last week’s disappointment, McLaren showed genuine pace in Qatar and return to a circuit where Lando Norris dominated last year. With the title on the line and confidence in his car’s setup, Norris looks primed to deliver one final performance worthy of a world champion.
Suggested Bet: Lando Norris to win at 3.50.
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Podium Finish
Carlos Sainz produced an inspired drive last weekend to claim a podium for Williams, helping the team secure vital Constructors’ points. Returning to a track where he also finished second last year, Sainz could once again upset the frontrunners if Williams’ straight-line speed carries over.
Suggested Bet: Carlos Sainz podium finish at 34.00
