Norris feeling positive after dominating practice in Abu Dhabi

LANDO Norris admitted his world championship prospects are “looking good” after he stole an early advantage by dominating practice in Formula One’s hotly anticipated season finale in Abu Dhabi.

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Norris, who will secure his maiden title if he finishes at least third in tomorrow’s 58-lap race, saw off rival Max Verstappen by a commanding 0.363 seconds under the lights of the Yas Marina Circuit. Norris’ McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri, the other championship contender, could manage only 11th.

Norris is on the brink of being crowned champion of the world but faces intense competition from Red Bull’s Verstappen, who is 12 points behind him. Piastri also remains in the battle, albeit four points back.

Yet it was Norris, bidding to become the 11th British driver to take motor racing's biggest prize, who led the way in both sessions yesterday.

Norris beat Verstappen to top spot by just eight thousandths of a second in the first running before extending his advantage to nearly four tenths with a statement lap by the day's close.