How should the drivers proceed to secure the title in the F1 finale?
The 2025 F1 finale is shaping up to be explosive. The world championship title could be decided in Abu Dhabi. After a Qatar GP full of twists, three drivers remain in contention: Lando Norris, Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri. While the McLaren Briton still leads the standings, the two rivals still have a chance to dethrone him.
Lando Norris, the royal road to the F1 finale title
With 408 points, Norris arrives at Yas Marina in the lead, twelve points ahead of Verstappen and sixteen ahead of Piastri. Finishing on the podium automatically guarantees him the title, no matter the result of the others. This applies whether he takes first, second or third place. Even a fourth or fifth place can be enough if Verstappen does not win the race.
If the Briton finishes lower, his chances depend on the performances of his rivals. With a sixth or seventh place, for example, he could still become champion at the F1 finale. But only if Verstappen and Piastri do not win. In the case of a ninth or tenth position, Verstappen must not finish on the podium and Piastri must remain behind.
In other words, for Norris, the simplest option is to aim for a podium. But even in case of a setback, his multiple options keep the title within reach. This thus reflects his consistency throughout the season.
A narrower path for Max Verstappen
For the five-time world champion, the road is more complicated, however. Verstappen must absolutely aim for victory in Abu Dhabi to hope to match his previous performances and take the title. A second or third place is possible, however. That said, the conditions are that Norris finishes far behind and that Piastri does not win. Any other position in this F1 finale deprives him of his chances.
Thus, for Verstappen, the final race comes down to an ambitious gamble. He must win and rely on a misstep from Norris. After his success in Qatar, the F1 driver has shown that a turnaround is possible. This race could then seal a fifth consecutive title for him.
Oscar Piastri, the demanding outsider
Piastri, third in the championship with 392 points, has the least room for manoeuvre in this F1 finale. He must absolutely finish first or second in Abu Dhabi. He must also hope that Norris and Verstappen remain behind according to the specific conditions.
A victory combined with a sixth place or worse for Norris can, for example, help him seize the title. On the other hand, a second place requires that Norris finishes tenth or lower. Verstappen, meanwhile, must finish off the podium.
The Australian driver admits himself that the situation is delicate. Several conditions must indeed fall in his favour for him to have a shot at the title. His recent performances, however, show that he remains capable of springing a surprise.
An F1 finale full of suspense this year
This finale reminds us that the title fight can be decided in the last corner. With three contenders and complex scenarios, every position on the grid will count. The slightest strategic or mechanical error could reshuffle the deck. In any case, the public can expect a thrilling show.
For Norris, Verstappen and Piastri, Abu Dhabi will be more than a race. This F1 finale will be a test of nerves, talent and strategy. The title will be decided by the smallest margin and every point could tip the championship.
