Abu Dhabi GP: UK Schedule and How to Watch the Title Decider

For the first time in 15 years, Formula 1 heads to its season finale with three drivers – Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, and Oscar Piastri – all in contention for the championship at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Norris currently holds a 12-point lead over Verstappen and a 16-point advantage over Piastri, meaning a podium finish could be enough to secure his maiden world title. However, as F1 has often shown, it's rarely straightforward. Verstappen and Piastri realistically need to win Sunday's race while hoping Norris encounters misfortune or makes a crucial mistake to steal the championship.

Why it matters:

• This rare three-way title fight brings an unprecedented level of excitement and unpredictability to the final race of the season, captivating fans and potentially leading to a historic moment for one of the sport's rising stars.
• Beyond the drivers' championship, the Constructors' Championship also sees a significant battle for the runner-up spot, with Mercedes 33 points ahead of Red Bull, adding another layer of intrigue.
• The Abu Dhabi GP marks the end of an era for the current F1 car regulations before new rules are introduced for 2026, which could drastically shake up the competitive order.

The Details:

• Championship Scenarios: Lando Norris needs a podium finish to become world champion, though a win guarantees it. Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri must win the race and rely on Norris having a poor performance.
• Yas Marina Circuit: The track underwent changes in 2021 to enhance overtaking opportunities, featuring more sweeping corners on its 3.281-mile layout. Key overtaking zones remain at Turn Six and Turn Nine, at the end of the two long back straights.
• Weather Conditions: Abu Dhabi is expected to be clear and dry throughout the weekend. Temperatures will reach 28°C during the day, cooling to 23°C for evening sessions like qualifying and the race.
• UK Broadcast Schedule (All times GMT):
  • Thursday, December 4:
    • 11:00 am: Drivers' Press Conference
  • Friday, December 5:
    • 9:30 am: Practice One
    • 1:00 pm: Practice Two
  • Saturday, December 6:
    • 11:30 am: Practice Three
    • 2:00 pm: ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX QUALIFYING
  • Sunday, December 7:
    • 1:00 pm: THE ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX
• How to Watch in the UK: Sky Sports F1 provides live coverage of all sessions. Sky customers can watch via TV or the Sky Sports app. Non-Sky customers can stream the action with a NOW Day or Month pass. Free highlights will be available shortly after the checkered flag on the Sky Sports app.

What's next:

This climactic finale will not only crown a new champion but also set the stage for the significant regulatory changes coming in 2026, marking the end of the current car generation. The outcome will surely influence team dynamics and driver motivations as F1 looks ahead to a new era.