The Formula 1 2025 season will end with a dramatic three-way title battle in Abu Dhabi after Max Verstappen claimed victory in the Qatar Grand Prix, outperforming Oscar Piastri while closing the points gap to current leader Lando Norris.
Verstappen delivered another controlled and powerful performance under the lights in Lusail, pushing his Red Bull to the limit despite strong competition from McLaren’s rising stars. The Dutchman’s consistency and race pace helped him secure a crucial win as the championship nears its end.
Lando Norris retained his lead in the standings despite finishing behind Verstappen, while teammate Oscar Piastri remained within striking distance. Both McLaren drivers showed impressive teamwork and speed, but Verstappen’s victory tightened the title picture significantly.
“It’s all going to come down to Abu Dhabi now. We’ll fight until the last lap,” Verstappen said after the race.
The final race at Yas Marina Circuit is now set to determine the 2025 champion in one of the tightest finishes in recent Formula 1 history. Each of the three main contenders — Norris, Verstappen, and Piastri — enters the finale with a mathematical shot at the title.
Lando Norris reflected, “We knew this would go to the end. It’s what fans dream about — three cars, one title.”
Red Bull and McLaren will face immense pressure in preparing for the Abu Dhabi showdown. Tire strategies, qualifying performance, and team coordination could all prove decisive. Verstappen’s experience in high-stakes finales contrasts with the youthful hunger of Norris and Piastri, adding extra intrigue to the title battle.
Author’s summary: Verstappen’s Qatar triumph turns the 2025 F1 race into a thrilling three-driver title decider, promising an intense final showdown in Abu Dhabi.