ROUND 21

Saudi Arabian Grand Prix

High-Stakes Drama Ends in a Fierce Championship Showdown

Jeddah Corniche Circuit - Sun. Dec 05, 2021
Position Driver Car Time/Gap
1st Lewis Hamilton Mercedes 02:06:15.118
2nd Max Verstappen Red Bull Racing Honda 11.825
3rd Valtteri Bottas Mercedes 27.531

Fastest lap / Driver: 01:30.734 - Lewis Hamilton

Average speed: 146.8 km/h - 91.2 mph

No. of laps / Distance: 50 laps - 308.45 k - 191.662 m

Battles for the Top

Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and Valtteri Bottas delivered a thrilling and controversial Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, where tire strategies, penalties, and daring moves defined the race. Hamilton, starting from second, wasted no time in making his move, aggressively pushing Verstappen in the opening laps, while Bottas hung back, setting a strong pace and maintaining a steady position in the top three.

The race took a dramatic turn as Verstappen was handed a time penalty for forcing Hamilton off track, which briefly altered the balance at the front. However, Verstappen quickly regained control, battling fiercely with Hamilton for the top spot. The two drivers exchanged the lead multiple times, weaving through heavy traffic, each knowing the stakes were higher than ever in the title fight.

Bottas, though not directly involved in the championship battle, played a crucial role by holding up key competitors and ensuring his team had valuable points. As the race neared its climax, Verstappen and Hamilton engaged in one final, heart-pounding duel, with Hamilton briefly holding the lead before Verstappen retook it, securing an exhilarating victory. Despite the intense pressure, Hamilton finished a close second, setting up a dramatic finale for the title.

The Podium Story

Max Verstappen stood victorious, arms raised, visibly relieved and thrilled as he celebrated a pivotal win. Lewis Hamilton, equally determined, accepted second with respect and quiet intensity, eager for the next battle. Valtteri Bottas, composed and focused, took his place in third, acknowledging his role in the race's drama and playing his part in the team's overall effort.

Championship Standings

1st Max Verstappen
369.5 pts
2nd Lewis Hamilton
369.5 pts
3rd Valtteri Bottas
218 pts

Continue the Story

You've read one race from the 1970s Formula 1 World Championship.

Continue through every Grand Prix, every podium battle and every championship story in the complete decade book.