Unstoppable Norris Clinches Historic McLaren Constructors' Title in Abu Dhabi

Unstoppable Norris Clinches Historic McLaren Constructors' Title in Abu Dhabi

By Michael Anderson

December 9, 2024 at 12:14 AM

Lando Norris dominated the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, securing McLaren's first constructors' championship since 1998 with a commanding victory from pole position.

F1 car racing on track

F1 car racing on track

The race began dramatically when Max Verstappen collided with Oscar Piastri at Turn 1, sending both cars spinning. Verstappen received a 10-second penalty for the incident. Carlos Sainz capitalized on the chaos to take second place, while Charles Leclerc made an impressive climb from 19th to eighth on the first lap alone.

Ferrari needed both cars on the podium with one winning to overcome McLaren's 21-point advantage. Despite Sainz's strong showing in second place, Norris maintained control throughout the race, crossing the finish line 5.8 seconds ahead to clinch the title for McLaren.

Key race highlights:

  • Leclerc completed a remarkable recovery drive from 19th to 3rd
  • Lewis Hamilton finished 4th after starting 16th
  • Verstappen finished 6th after serving his penalty
  • Piastri recovered to finish 10th despite first-lap incident

"It feels incredible," said Norris. "Not for myself but for the whole team. The team have done an amazing job this year to come from where we were at the beginning."

F1 Saudi Arabia Grand Prix results

F1 Saudi Arabia Grand Prix results

The victory marks McLaren's first constructors' title in 26 years, cementing their remarkable turnaround this season. Sainz finished second in his final race for Ferrari, with teammate Leclerc completing the podium after his impressive recovery drive.

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