McLaren are favourites to clinch the Constructor’s Championship on the final race day out in Abu Dhabi. The Papaya team have 21 points over closest rivals Ferrari and their drivers top the grid with Lando Norris on pole and Oscar Piastri joining him on the front row.
Despite Carlos Sainz following close behind in third on the starting grid, Ferrari have been dealt a blow as a grid penalty causes Charles Leclerc to start in 19th position.
Lewis Hamilton’s legacy as a Mercedes driver comes to an end today as the seven-time world champions races for the final time under the Silver Arrows. Hamilton will be taking Sainz’ seat at Ferrari in the 2025 season with youngster Kimi Antonelli already confirmed to fill the sizable hole at Mercedes.
On the day of his final Mercedes outing Hamilton told Sky:
“It’s a beautiful day. It’s a very strange feeling. I can’t really put in words what I’m feeling at the moment. But I think ultimately just a lot of gratitude, and hoping that today I can do something from all the way back where I am.
“I’m ultimately trying to just be really present, looking around just trying to remember it and take it all in.”
