Lando Norris Wins Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Secures McLaren’s First Constructors’ Title in 26 Years
Dramatic Start to the Race
Lando Norris ended McLaren’s 26-year wait for the Formula 1 constructors’ title as he won the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Sunday. The drama started at the beginning of the race, with champion Max Verstappen colliding with Oscar Piastri’s second-place McLaren at the first corner, sending both cars into a spin. With Piastri dropped to the back of the field, McLaren’s title hopes depended on race leader Norris.
Norris’ Victory and Reaction
Norris held on for the win with Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz Jr. in second and Charles Leclerc surging up to third from 19th on the grid. While Sainz didn’t get close enough to try to overtake Norris, it was a tense finish for McLaren chief executive Zak Brown, aware that any technical fault on the car would hand the title to Ferrari. "Incredible, well done everyone, so proud of you all. You all deserve this," Norris told his team over the radio. "It’s been a special year. Next year’s going to be my year too."
Hamilton Bids Farewell to Mercedes
Seven-Time Champion’s Last Race for Mercedes
Seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton was fourth in his 246th and last race for Mercedes before joining Ferrari next year. He overtook teammate George Russell on the last lap, and then told his engineer Peter Bonnington over the radio, "We dreamed alone but together we believed." He then spun the car in "donuts" to cheers from the crowd.
McLaren’s Turnaround
From Ninth to First
Winning the constructors’ title completes a once-unlikely turnaround for a team with plenty of F1 history but which was mired in ninth in the standings just seven years ago. When Norris joined McLaren in 2019, he didn’t finish higher than sixth in any race in his debut season. McLaren started the season far off the pace but made a leap forward with upgrades to the car at the Miami Grand Prix in May, rewarded instantly with a first career win for Norris.
Conclusion
Lando Norris’ victory in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix secured McLaren’s first constructors’ title in 26 years, capping off an incredible turnaround for the team. The win marks a new era for McLaren, with Norris set to continue challenging for top results in the 2024 season.
FAQs
Q: Who won the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix?
A: Lando Norris won the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Q: Who secured McLaren’s first constructors’ title in 26 years?
A: Lando Norris won the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, securing McLaren’s first constructors’ title in 26 years.
Q: Who finished second in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix?
A: Carlos Sainz Jr. finished second in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Q: Who is leaving Mercedes?
A: Lewis Hamilton is leaving Mercedes to join Ferrari next year.
Q: Who finished 10th in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix?
A: Oscar Piastri finished 10th in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
