Lando Norris Leads McLaren to Historic Victory in Abu Dhabi
Lando Norris made history on Sunday by leading the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix from start to finish, securing McLaren’s first Formula 1 constructors’ championship in 26 years. The 23-year-old British driver delivered a flawless performance, bringing joy to McLaren fans worldwide.
“You all deserve this. Thank you so much. It’s been a special year,” Norris exclaimed over the team radio after crossing the finish line. “Next year is going to be my year too.”
The victory was not without drama. Norris’s teammate, Australian rookie Oscar Piastri, tangled with Red Bull’s Max Verstappen at the first corner, dropping to the back of the field. Piastri fought back to finish 10th, adding one crucial point to McLaren’s tally.
Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc claimed second and third places, respectively, but it wasn’t enough to overtake McLaren in the championship standings. McLaren finished 14 points ahead of Ferrari, clinching the constructors’ title for the first time since 1998.
The race also saw seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton finish fourth in his final outing for Mercedes. Starting from 16th on the grid, Hamilton showcased his skill by overtaking teammate George Russell on the last lap. “Lewis, that was the drive of a world champion,” praised Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff.
Hamilton will join Ferrari next season, teaming up with Leclerc. “What started as a leap of faith turned into a journey into the history books,” Hamilton reflected.
Max Verstappen, who had already secured his fourth consecutive drivers’ title, finished sixth after receiving a 10-second penalty for the collision with Piastri.
Chinese driver Zhou Guanyu finished 13th in his final race with Kick Sauber before parting ways with the team.
McLaren’s victory is particularly significant as they become the first team in the current engine era to win the title as a customer rather than a factory team. The success marks a resurgence for the historic team and sets the stage for an exciting next season.
Reference(s):
Lando Norris wins in Abu Dhabi as McLaren end Formula 1 title drought
cgtn.com
