Summary
Lando Norris finished just ahead of Max Verstappen in the first practice session of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Norris is leading the championship and will win if he finishes in the top three in the final race. The practice session is not always a true indication of performance because it takes place during the day, unlike the race and qualifying, which occur at twilight.
Key Facts
- Lando Norris was slightly faster than Max Verstappen by 0.008 seconds in the first practice session.
- Norris leads Verstappen by 12 points in the championship.
- If Norris finishes in the top three, he will become the world champion.
- Max Verstappen needs to win the race and hope Norris finishes below third to become the champion.
- Oscar Piastri, Norris' teammate, did not participate in the first session; an IndyCar driver took his place as part of a rookie program.
- The practice happened in daylight, but qualifying and the race are held during twilight.
- Charles Leclerc came third in the practice session, and his brother Arthur joined him as part of Ferrari's team.
- Mercedes and Sauber were the only teams that used both of their regular race drivers in the session.
