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FIA steward delivers Verstappen verdict over Abu Dhabi finale

An FIA steward and former Formula 1 driver has expressed his desire to see the 2024 drivers’ championship come down to a dramatic final race. Max Verstappen, the reigning champion and Red Bull star, is aiming for his fourth consecutive title but has faced mounting pressure in recent months. A significant dip in form has seen him go winless in his last eight races, causing his once dominant lead at the top of the standings to shrink to just 52 points with six races remaining.

Verstappen’s biggest challenger this season has come from an unexpected source: McLaren’s Lando Norris. The British driver has emerged as a serious contender, steadily closing the gap on Verstappen as the season has progressed. Norris’ recent win in Singapore, where he finished ahead of the defending champion, has given him momentum going into the final stretch of what has been an exciting and unpredictable season.

With upcoming races in the USA, Mexico, Brazil, and Qatar, there is still a chance that the title could be decided before the final race in Abu Dhabi. However, Johnny Herbert, a three-time race winner and former FIA steward, is hoping for a last-race showdown at the Yas Marina Circuit. Speaking to Vision4Sport, Herbert shared his enthusiasm for the prospect of a closely contested championship battle that could culminate in a thrilling finale.

“Abu Dhabi is a fantastic track to drive,” Herbert said. “I’ve driven it in several different cars, including two-seater Formula 1 cars, and it gives you a real sense of speed and challenge. It’s a track that’s enjoyable to drive, but it can be frustrating during the race because some of the corners are difficult for overtaking. However, overtaking is still possible, and that’s what makes it exciting.”

Herbert emphasized that whoever wins the championship in Abu Dhabi will have truly earned it. He believes that both Verstappen and Norris will need to deliver their very best performances to come out on top. McLaren, in particular, has stood out for its consistency throughout the season, with their car performing well at a variety of circuits.

“McLaren has been incredibly consistent, no matter the track,” Herbert noted. “Their car just works. It’s been a bit edgy at times, especially in some of the corners, but they seem to manage it well. Max has mentioned that Red Bull’s car has been tricky too, especially in terms of trusting the rear end to grip when needed. Red Bull is struggling a bit with that, whereas McLaren seems to have more to give.”

Herbert also pointed out that an edgy car can still be fast, but the driver needs confidence in the vehicle’s handling. Right now, McLaren appears to be managing their car’s difficulties better than Red Bull, giving Norris an edge in the closing stages of the season.

Looking ahead, Herbert expressed excitement at the prospect of seeing McLaren potentially take the title. “It would be amazing to see McLaren win again,” he said. “And Abu Dhabi feels like the perfect stage for a final showdown between Max and Lando.”

As Formula 1 heads into the crucial final races, fans are left wondering if the championship battle will indeed go down to the wire. With Verstappen and Norris both vying for the title, the 2024 season could deliver one of the most exciting finales in recent memory, potentially setting the stage for a historic race at the Yas Marina Circuit.