McLaren Shines in Abu Dhabi as Norris Leads Piastri to One-Two Finish in FP2
In a thrilling display of speed and teamwork, Lando Norris steered McLaren to a dominant one-two finish during the second practice session of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, marking a promising start as the team aims for the Constructors’ Championship title. With just one race left in the season, the stakes couldn’t be higher, and McLaren is poised to capitalize on its momentum.
Earlier on Friday, the team received a significant boost when Ferrari faced a major setback. Charles Leclerc incurred a 10-place grid penalty for replacing his battery, intensifying the pressure on the Scuderia as they attempt to close a 21-point gap heading into the season finale. The urgency of the situation was palpable, and as the evening practice unfolded, McLaren demonstrated their readiness to seize the opportunity.
Norris clocked an impressive lap time of 1:23.517 seconds, finishing over two-tenths of a second ahead of teammate Oscar Piastri. Both drivers showcased not only their speed but also strong pace in longer race simulations, further solidifying McLaren’s competitive edge.
In a surprising turn, Nico Hulkenberg from Haas claimed the third spot, showing that the mid-field battle remains fierce. He finished a couple of tenths behind the McLaren duo, while Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz could only manage fourth, leaving Leclerc in a disappointing sixth place.
The session also marked a poignant moment for Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton, who is set to part ways with the team after an illustrious 12-season run to join Ferrari next year.
Hamilton secured fifth place, but the spotlight was also on his teammate George Russell and reigning champion Max Verstappen, both of whom struggled for pace. Russell finished in 13th after a mistake on his soft-tyre run, while Verstappen expressed frustration over his car’s handling, ending up in 17th.
As the teams head into the final qualifying session, McLaren stands ready to make history by clinching their first Constructors’ Championship since 1998. With Norris and Piastri in prime form, the stage is set for an exhilarating race in Abu Dhabi.
