Max Verstappen secured pole position for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ahead of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, setting up a dramatic final race of the season with all three still in the title fight. Verstappen said he will go “all out” with nothing to lose, but Norris holds the championship advantage: he becomes world champion if he finishes ahead of both rivals or takes third place or better.
Verstappen must win and hope Norris finishes off the podium to take the title, while Piastri needs victory and for Norris to finish sixth or lower. McLaren have confirmed they will use team orders if needed.
Qualifying was tight, Verstappen beating Norris by two tenths, with Piastri close behind. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton endured more struggles, qualifying only 16th after a practice crash, capping a difficult season without a podium.
The stage is set for a tense finale under the lights — Verstappen up front, but Norris holding the cards.
