Max Verstappen will start from pole for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, setting up a dramatic final race with the championship still undecided. Lando Norris lines up second with Oscar Piastri third, meaning all three contenders begin nose-to-tail for the title decider.
Norris remains favourite overall. He leads Verstappen by 12 points and Piastri by 16 and will become world champion if he finishes ahead of both, or takes third place or better regardless of the winner. Verstappen must win and hope Norris finishes off the podium, while Piastri needs victory and for Norris to end sixth or lower.
Verstappen’s final lap of 1:22.207 secured his eighth pole of the season, continuing a strong late-year surge. McLaren say they will use team orders if needed to ensure one of their drivers secures the title.
Lewis Hamilton, meanwhile, will start 16th after crashing in practice and struggling in qualifying, ending a difficult season without a podium.
