Lando Norris capped off an exhilarating Formula 1 season by leading the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix from start to finish on Sunday, securing McLaren's first constructors' title in 26 years.
The British driver showcased remarkable skill after his Australian teammate, Oscar Piastri, collided with Red Bull's Max Verstappen at the first corner, sending Piastri plummeting to the back of the field. Despite the early setback, Piastri fought his way to a respectable 10th place finish.
Ferrari's Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc took second and third places respectively, positioning themselves as McLaren's historic rivals in the championship race. Norris celebrated the victory with a heartfelt message over the team radio: \"You all deserve this. Thank you so much. It's been a special year. Next year is going to be my year too.\"
This triumph gave McLaren a 14-point lead over Ferrari, clinching the title for the first time since 1998. Norris also finished the season as the overall runner-up, marking a stellar year for the young driver.
In other notable performances, Chinese driver Zhou Guanyu of Kick Sauber concluded his season in 13th place during his final race with the team. Meanwhile, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton delivered a memorable performance in his last race for Mercedes, finishing fourth after a dramatic overtaking maneuver on his teammate George Russell in the final lap.
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff praised Hamilton's drive, saying, \"Lewis, that was the drive of a world champion.\" Verstappen, who secured his fourth consecutive drivers' title last month, finished sixth after receiving a penalty for the earlier collision with Piastri.
McLaren's victory as the first team of the current engine era to win the title as a customer rather than a factory team marks a significant milestone in Formula 1 history.
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Lando Norris wins in Abu Dhabi as McLaren end Formula 1 title drought
cgtn.com
