Lando Norris set the pace during Friday’s practice, kicking off his quest for the world championship at the Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix.
With just two days before the highly anticipated title showdown at the Yas Marina Circuit, Norris clocked the fastest laps in both practice sessions.
Max Verstappen, a four-time world champion aiming to match Michael Schumacher’s record of five consecutive titles, secured the second-fastest time on Friday.
Norris dominated as his car was 0.008 seconds quicker in the afternoon and 0.363 seconds faster under the evening lights.
The 26-year-old Brit, leading Verstappen by 12 points in the standings, looks to maintain his momentum for Saturday’s pole position race.
Meanwhile, Oscar Piastri, Norris’s McLaren teammate and third in the title race, trailing Verstappen by four points, placed 11th in the evening session after skipping the afternoon.
“Oscar is still finding his rhythm, but he’ll get there,” said McLaren boss Zak Brown. “Both of our drivers are impressively composed this weekend.”
Elsewhere, Mercedes’ George Russell achieved the third fastest evening time, while Haas’s Oliver Bearman came fourth.
During the first session, only 11 regular drivers, including Norris, participated, as teams allowed younger drivers to practice.
Exciting Conclusion
Thousands gathered at Yas Marina as drivers made final preparations.
F1 fans are thrilled with Norris, Verstappen, and Piastri all in contention for the ultimate title.
Norris, with his strong lead, is the favorite.
Verstappen, however, needs a victory and for Norris not to reach the podium.
With recent wins in Las Vegas and Qatar, Verstappen is eager to showcase his skill on this decisive track.
It was here in Abu Dhabi in 2021 that the Dutchman claimed his first world title.
