Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to Decide 2025 Formula 1 World Champion

The 2025 Formula 1 World Championship will be decided this weekend. Three drivers are in mathematical contention for the title at the season finale in Abu Dhabi. Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, and Oscar Piastri will battle under the Yas Marina lights. The race takes place on Sunday, December 7th.

This marks the first final-race title decider since the dramatic 2021 season. Max Verstappen is pursuing a historic fifth drivers’ championship. A win would tie him with legendary driver Juan Manuel Fangio.

Historic Fifth Title Within Verstappen’s Reach

Verstappen enters the weekend with a points lead. His performance throughout the season has been dominant, according to race analysis. However, the points gap is narrow enough for his rivals to challenge.

Lando Norris and his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri are both chasing their first championship. The McLaren team’s strong development this season has put both drivers in this position. This three-way fight promises high drama on the track.

Viewing Details and Broadcast Information

Fans in the United States can watch the action on ESPN. The main race broadcast begins at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Sunday. Practice and qualifying sessions start on Friday, December 5th.

Multiple streaming services will carry the ESPN feed for cord-cutters. Options include DirecTV Stream, Fubo, and Sling TV. The official F1 TV Pro subscription also provides a dedicated global feed and onboard cameras.

The 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix sets the stage for a monumental conclusion to the Formula 1 season, ensuring this championship battle will be remembered for years to come.

Dropping this nugget your way

Who is leading the championship before Abu Dhabi?

Max Verstappen holds the points lead heading into the finale. His exact advantage depends on the chosen scoring system, but it is a slim margin. This makes the race winner-takes-all for the title.

What time does the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix start?

The race starts at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Sunday, December 7th. Local start time at the Yas Marina Circuit is 5:00 p.m. Qualifying is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. ET on Saturday.

Can I stream the race for free?

Yes, several streaming services offer free trials. DirecTV Stream and Fubo both provide multi-day trial periods. These trials would cover the entire race weekend if timed correctly.

How many titles has Max Verstappen won?

Max Verstappen has won four Formula 1 World Championships. A victory this weekend would secure his fifth title. This would place him equal with Juan Manuel Fangio on the all-time list.

Has Lando Norris ever won the championship?

No, Lando Norris is seeking his first Formula 1 World Championship. This is his closest title fight to date. A win for Norris would be his and McLaren’s first drivers’ title in over a decade.