Breaking: Abu Dhabi GP qualifying results changed as grid penalty affects Max Verstappen’s…read more

The qualifying session for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix took an unexpected turn two hours after it concluded, with a penalty altering the grid lineup. Lando Norris clinched pole position, leading a McLaren 1-2 finish alongside teammate Oscar Piastri, an outcome that bolsters McLaren’s quest for the Constructors’ Championship. Carlos Sainz secured third place, but changes followed shortly after for other competitors.

Nico Hulkenberg, who initially placed fourth with an impressive drive for Haas, was handed a three-place grid penalty. The penalty, resulting from a stewards’ review, dropped Hulkenberg to seventh for Sunday’s race. This reshuffle elevated Max Verstappen, the reigning champion, to fourth on the grid. Alpine’s Pierre Gasly moved up to fifth, followed by Mercedes driver George Russell in sixth.

Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton’s struggles in his final qualifying session for Mercedes were evident. He was eliminated in Q1 after an incident involving a dislodged marker board under his car, leaving him in 18th place. This disappointing result marks the end of Hamilton’s 12-year tenure at Mercedes as he prepares to join Ferrari in 2025.

Hulkenberg’s penalty is a significant blow to Haas, particularly as this race marks the 37-year-old’s final appearance for the team before his move to Sauber in 2025. Despite his demotion, Hulkenberg remains optimistic about his performance, stating he maximized the car’s potential under challenging conditions.

The grid changes have added intrigue to the season finale at Yas Marina Circuit, promising an intense race as drivers and teams push for the last points of the season.