Abu Dhabi's iconic Yas Marina gears up for thrilling Formula One finale

The 2025 Formula One World Drivers' Championship will be decided under the lights at Yas Marina Circuit with a three-way title battle set for a thrilling conclusion in Abu Dhabi this weekend.

- Khaleej Times Staff [e-mail]

McLaren's Lando Norris drives during the Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix at the Yas Marina Circuit on December 8, 2024.

(AFP FILE)

Max Verstappen's dramatic victory in Qatar means the sporting world's eyes will be fixed on the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with the Dutchman locked in a tense battle for glory with the McLaren duo of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.

The Red Bull driver's win lifted him into second place in the standings on 396 points, 12 behind series leader Norris who finished fourth at the Lusail International Circuit. Pole-sitter Piastri dropped to third but cut his deficit to Norris to 18 points.

This weekend marks the fourth title decider to take place in the UAE capital and the first since 2021. It will also be the first time three drivers have arrived in Abu Dhabi with a shot at glory.

Verstappen, aiming for a fifth drivers' crown, has won four of the last five races at Yas Marina Circuit, with that run broken by Norris in 2024. With just 16 points separating the three contenders, and 25 up for grabs on Sunday, Yas Marina Circuit will provide the backdrop for one of the most exciting championship finales in F1 history.