5 surprise things missed from the 2024 F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix…Read more
5 surprise things missed from the 2024 F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
The 2024 F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the season’s dramatic finale at Yas Marina Circuit, delivered an eventful race, culminating in McLaren clinching their first Constructors’ Championship since 1998.
While Lando Norris secured victory, Oscar Piastri’s early clash with Max Verstappen at Turn 1 set the tone for the chaotic start.
Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton marked the end of his Mercedes tenure with a memorable performance, setting the stage for five key moments fans may have overlooked.
1. Hamilton’s Spectacular Farewell
Despite a tough qualifying session marred by an encounter with a bollard, Hamilton delivered a commendable performance on Sunday, climbing to finish P4.
While he missed the podium, the seven-time champion made his final race with Mercedes unforgettable by performing burnouts and doughnuts on the starting grid, thrilling fans under Yas Marina’s iconic lights.
2. Russell’s Surprising Podium Appearance
Although George Russell crossed the line in P5, he unexpectedly appeared on the podium—but not for the actual race.
Instead, Russell participated in filming a scene for the much-anticipated F1 movie starring Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes.
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc also joined the cinematic podium celebrations, though both drivers likely wished for a real-world top-three finish.
3. Ted Kravitz’s F1 Movie Cameo
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix also highlighted the upcoming F1 movie’s production.
Brad Pitt, who has been at the center of filming throughout the season, spoke with F1 pit-lane reporter Ted Kravitz before the race.
During their conversation, Pitt shared insights into the movie’s progress, revealing that filming was wrapping up in Abu Dhabi.
Pitt even invited Kravitz to make a cameo appearance, marking a fun and unexpected collaboration.
4. Magnussen’s Touching Family Moment
Kevin Magnussen may have raced in F1 for the last time as he departs Haas to join BMW’s LMDh program.
Ahead of the Abu Dhabi race, the Danish driver shared a heartfelt moment on the grid with his wife and daughter.
This emotional scene underscored the personal significance of his potential farewell to the sport.
5. Bottas’ Mercedes Cameo
Valtteri Bottas, facing an uncertain F1 future after leaving Sauber following a challenging season, might not be entirely done with the paddock.
Rumors suggest a possible return to Mercedes in some capacity.
In a lighthearted twist, Bottas was spotted using Mercedes’ garage facilities before the race, hinting at the camaraderie he still shares with his former team.
The Abu Dhabi GP provided a fitting conclusion to the 2024 F1 season, blending on-track chaos, touching personal moments, and glimpses of F1’s cinematic future.
From McLaren’s championship triumph to the farewell of familiar faces, the weekend encapsulated the sport’s thrilling and unpredictable nature.
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