Ferrari's Charles Leclerc (right) with his brother Arthur Leclerc after the first practice session at the Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix. — AFP
The Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix, marking the final race of the 2024 F1 season, commenced at Yas Marina Circuit on Friday with the opening practice session. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc set an early benchmark with a time of 1:24:321. However, Ferrari’s elation was fleeting as Leclerc was penalized with a 10-place grid drop, significantly denting the team’s aspirations for the constructors’ championship in Abu Dhabi. The Italian powerhouse was compelled to replace the battery pack on Leclerc’s car, an action exceeding their seasonal allowance. This penalty has significantly bolstered the chances of title contenders, including McLaren, in their quest for the esteemed constructors’ trophy. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen has already secured the drivers’ world title with a fifth-place finish at the Las Vegas Grand Prix last month, marking his fourth consecutive world title. Notably, his first world title in 2020 was also clinched in Abu Dhabi, where he triumphed over Hamilton in a dramatic season finale at Yas Marina Circuit. Hamilton, aiming to become the first driver to win eight world titles, recorded the third fastest time—1:24:806—in Friday’s practice session. Since the intense 2020 battle in Abu Dhabi, Hamilton has struggled for consistency as Verstappen has firmly established his dominance on the F1 circuit. Sunday’s race at Yas Marina will be Hamilton’s final outing for Mercedes, as he is poised to join Ferrari next year. Meanwhile, McLaren’s Lando Norris (1:24:542) of Great Britain clocked the second fastest time.
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