McLaren Prepared for Verstappen's Strategy in Abu Dhabi

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella anticipates 'interesting racing' at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, while expressing confidence that all on-track action will remain within the 'boundaries of sportsmanship and fairness.' With Max Verstappen needing Lando Norris to finish no higher than fourth to clinch his fifth F1 world title, McLaren is bracing for various scenarios.

Why it matters:

Ferrari's long-term pursuit of a breakthrough engine could significantly alter F1's competitive landscape. A reliable, powerful engine is crucial for a team aiming to challenge established front-runners and return to championship contention, a position Ferrari hasn't consistently held since 2018. This strategic ambition could reshape the grid's balance of power.

The Details:

• Andrea Stella expects 'interesting racing' at the Abu Dhabi GP, emphasizing that it will be within 'sportsmanship and fairness.'
• Max Verstappen needs Lando Norris to finish at most fourth to secure his fifth F1 world title.
• Stella isn't 'too worried' about Verstappen's potential 'tricks,' trusting in fair play.
• Norris will start second on the grid, alongside Verstappen.
• Regarding Turn 1, Stella advises Norris to be 'relatively prudent' due to the inside line not always guaranteeing a better exit in Abu Dhabi.
• Tyre Degradation Concerns: Stella noted that practice sessions showed higher-than-expected degradation and graining, which could influence race pace.
  • McLaren's strategy team saved hard tires, anticipating their potential value in a high-degradation race.
  • Stella doubts significant improvement in tire graining during the race, based on recent season trends.
• Pace control due to tire management is expected, potentially making the race a one- or two-stop strategy.

What's next:

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is set to be a strategic battle, not just for the race win but also for the championship implications. McLaren's cautious yet prepared approach, combined with the unpredictable tire degradation, suggests a tense and exciting race. The focus will be on how Norris manages his race from the front row and whether Verstappen can execute a strategy that secures his championship.

• The race outcome will hinge on tire management and strategic calls from both teams.
• Norris's prudence in Turn 1 and throughout the early stages will be critical to his race and championship implications.
• Verstappen's ability to control the pace and manage the field will be key to his title aspirations.
• The strategic use of hard tires by McLaren and other teams could be a decisive factor.