2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix - Race Review
The exciting 2024 Formula 1 season was signed off in style this Sunday around the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, with a victory for Lando Norris ensuring that McLaren secured their first World Constructor’s title in the 21st century. But, that’s far from all that happened, so stay with Supercars.com.GH as we bring you our review of the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Drama ensured as soon as the lights went out and we arrived at the first corner, as Oscar Piastri’s contact with 2024 World Champion Max Verstappen sent both drivers tumbling down the order, with Red Bull’s Sergio Perez also getting caught in the crossfire later on in the lap and retiring on the spot. This triggered a virtual safety car and set the tone for a chaotic and action-packed race.
Penalties flew thick and fast as the stewards investigated the opening lap carnage. Piastri copped a 10-second penalty for tangling with Verstappen, while Valtteri Bottas was also penalized for causing Perez’s spin. Piastri’s woes continued when a further incident with Franco Colapnito resulted in another penalty.
Meanwhile, at the front, Lando Norris emerged unscathed from the opening lap drama and built a comfortable lead over Carlos Sainz. Charles Leclerc, starting a lowly P19 due to a penalty, staged a remarkable recovery, battling his way up to third by mid-race.
The battle for fourth became a thrilling team duel between Mercedes teammates George Russell and Hamilton. Despite team orders requesting a clean fight, Hamilton unleashed his trademark ‘Hammer Time’ and ultimately snatched the position from his younger teammate in his final Grand Prix wearing Mercedes colors.
McLaren’s historic win was overshadowed somewhat by the drama further down the field. Piastri’s tough day ended with a P10 finish, while Verstappen, already crowned champion, could only manage a P6. Alpine secured P7 in the constructors’ championship with Pierre Gasly claiming a solid P7 finish.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marked the end of an era for several drivers. Bottas, Zhou, and Colopinto failed to secure seats for 2025, while Sergio Perez’s future remains uncertain. Jack Doohan made a promising debut for Alpine, crossing the line in 15th.
Overall, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix delivered a fitting conclusion to a thrilling 2024 season. McLaren’s long-awaited constructors’ title will be the story most remember, but it was the unpredictable nature of the race that truly stole the show. Want more F1 content? Stay tuned with Supercars.com.GH, as we got even more F1 content coming your way!