2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Post-Qualifying Press Conference: Verstappen Secures Pole, McLaren Drivers Confident

Max Verstappen clinched his 48th career pole position at the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, showcasing remarkable pace in Q3. McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri qualified second and third, respectively, setting the stage for a thrilling championship decider. All three drivers expressed satisfaction with their qualifying efforts, while acknowledging the challenge of maintaining race pace and managing championship pressure.

Why it matters:

• The qualifying results put championship rivals Verstappen and Norris on the front row, with Piastri directly behind, intensifying the battle for the drivers' championship in the season finale.
• The significant lap time found by Verstappen in Q3, after a less straightforward practice, highlights Red Bull's ability to optimize the car under changing track conditions.
• McLaren's strong qualifying performance with both drivers reinforces their potential to challenge for the race win and, for Norris, secure the championship.

The Details:

• Verstappen's Performance: Max Verstappen attributed his Q3 surge to improved track conditions as temperatures dropped and effective car changes made after practice. He felt the car was "more together" in qualifying, benefiting from fine-tuning and even a tow from Yuki Tsunoda in Q2.
• McLaren's Pace: Lando Norris expressed disappointment at not securing pole but was "pretty happy" with his Q3 laps, feeling he extracted the maximum from the car. Oscar Piastri echoed similar sentiments, content with his qualifying effort despite not matching Verstappen's pace.
• Track Evolution: All three drivers noted the natural improvement in track grip throughout the weekend. However, they anticipate challenges with tire graining on the front right and degradation on the rears during the race.
• Car Adjustments: Verstappen revealed that the team made final changes "going into the night" sessions, which significantly improved the car's feel and balance, especially in corners.
• Championship Implications: For Norris, a podium finish would secure the world championship. Verstappen needs to win and rely on other outcomes, while Piastri also acknowledges he needs favorable race events to win the title.

What's next:

• Race Strategy: Verstappen plans to "attack" and "defend" with nothing to lose, aiming for the win. Norris stated he would decide on risks during the race itself, balancing championship protection with the goal of winning. Piastri acknowledged the need for "things to happen in the race" to win the championship.
• Team Orders: Piastri indicated that discussions about team orders would likely occur before the race, but emphasized mutual respect between him and Norris regardless of the outcome. Norris agreed, stating they both understand each other and would respect the winner.
• Pressure Management: Verstappen thrives under pressure, comparing his Q3 lap to his 2021 qualifying performance in Abu Dhabi. Norris felt "pretty normal" despite the championship stakes, focusing on executing the race plan.
• First Few Corners: The drivers acknowledged the critical nature of the opening corners, with Verstappen ready to take maximum risk, while Norris and Piastri would assess the situation in real-time.