ROUND 21

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Momentum Maintained, Season Closed in Style

Yas Marina Circuit - Sun. Nov 25, 2018
Position Driver Car Time/Gap
1st Lewis Hamilton Mercedes F1 W09 EQ Power+ 01:39:40.382
2nd Sebastian Vettel Ferrari SF71H 2.581
3rd Max Verstappen Red Bull Racing RB14 12.706

Fastest lap / Driver: 01:40.867 - Sebastian Vettel

Average speed: 198 km/h - 123 mph

No. of laps / Distance: 55 laps - 305.355 k - 189.747 m

The Winners!

A strong start, clean execution, and relentless pace defined Lewis Hamilton’s final race of the season. From pole to flag, Hamilton showed little vulnerability, managing every stint with clinical precision. Sebastian Vettel pushed hard in the second half, closing the gap but never truly threatening the lead. Max Verstappen, meanwhile, battled through early skirmishes and tyre management issues to secure a firm third, rounding off a sharp end to his campaign.

Behind the leaders, it was a farewell to some and a fight to the line for others. Kimi Räikkönen retired early with a mechanical failure, ending his Ferrari chapter on a low. Daniel Ricciardo surged late in a bid to challenge Verstappen but couldn’t edge past. Valtteri Bottas faded from the podium fight with tyre wear and braking issues, showing once again how quickly momentum can swing at this level.

The weekend may not have delivered major drama, but it delivered finality. In a season dominated by consistency and precision, the final act was fitting: calculated, efficient, and a reminder of why Hamilton claimed the title well before this race.

Champagne Winners

Smiles and sincere congratulations marked the podium in Abu Dhabi. Lewis Hamilton stood tall, celebrating a flawless end to a dominant season. Sebastian Vettel joined him in sporting spirit, reflecting on what could have been. Max Verstappen added energy, rounding out a year of growth with well-earned champagne. The sunset podium reflected closure, respect, and the promise of more battles to come.

Championship Standings

1st Lewis Hamilton
408 pts
2nd Sebastian Vettel
320 pts
3rd Kimi Räikkönen
251 pts

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