F1 Abu Dhabi GP: The Final Race for the 2025 World Championship Live

The 2025 Formula 1 World Championship comes down to a thrilling finale in Abu Dhabi, with Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, and Oscar Piastri all vying for the title. Verstappen secured pole position, but Norris and Piastri are right behind, setting the stage for an intense race on the Yas Marina Circuit, starting at 2 PM CET.

Why it matters:

• This race is the decisive moment for the 2025 F1 World Championship, with three drivers still in contention, promising a nail-biting conclusion to the season.
• The outcome will determine whether Max Verstappen claims a record-equaling fifth consecutive title or if McLaren secures their first drivers' championship since 2008.
• The strategic battle between Red Bull and McLaren, including potential team orders, will be a critical factor in who ultimately lifts the trophy.

The details:

• Broadcast Information (Germany): Sky is the exclusive live broadcaster, offering comprehensive coverage from early afternoon.
• Broadcast Information (Austria): ServusTV will provide free-to-air live coverage, featuring its regular broadcast team.
• Broadcast Information (Switzerland): SRF zwei will broadcast the race live, with streaming available on Play SRF.
• VPN Access: Fans in other regions can potentially access free broadcasts from Austria (ORF, ServusTV) and Switzerland (SRF) using a VPN service.
• Key Race Times (December 7, 2025):
  • Race start: 2:00 PM CET
  • ServusTV coverage begins: 12:00 PM CET
  • Sky Sport F1 coverage begins: 12:30 PM CET
  • SRF zwei coverage begins: 1:20 PM CET
• Starting Grid Dynamics: Verstappen starts from pole, but the championship scenarios mean he needs to win and hope Norris finishes fourth or lower. Norris can secure the title with a podium finish, while Piastri requires a win and Norris to finish sixth or lower.
• Circuit Facts for Abu Dhabi:
  • Laps: 58
  • Total Race Distance: 306.183 km
  • Track Length: 5.281 km
  • Corners: 16
  • Tire Compounds: C3, C4, C5
  • Lap Record: 1:25.637 min (Magnussen, 2024)
  • Previous Winner: Lando Norris

The big picture:

The 2025 season has been a captivating battle, leading to a dramatic three-way championship showdown. This final race isn't just about individual glory; it's a testament to the competitive evolution of McLaren, who are now challenging Red Bull's long-standing dominance. The outcome will set the tone for the next era of Formula 1, influencing team strategies, driver market dynamics, and the overall perception of each constructor's capabilities going into the off-season.

What's next:

The world champion will be crowned today, concluding a thrilling season. Beyond the celebrations and commiserations, teams will immediately shift their focus to 2026 car development and driver contracts, with the results from Abu Dhabi potentially impacting future investments and personnel decisions. The off-season will be filled with analysis, with all eyes already looking ahead to how the teams will build on their 2025 performances for the next championship campaign.