Russell: Verstappen Could Back Up Field in Abu Dhabi

George Russell believes Max Verstappen could strategically slow the field during the championship-deciding Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to influence the race outcome. Verstappen, who secured pole position, needs more than just a win to clinch his fifth consecutive world title; Lando Norris must finish below third place.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's potential tactic highlights the high stakes of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where a strategic move could determine the world championship. Such a maneuver would add another layer of complexity and intrigue to an already tense season finale, demonstrating how drivers can leverage track characteristics and race dynamics beyond pure pace to achieve their goals.

The Details:

• Russell stated that slowing down the pack is a "very normal thing to do" on certain tracks, such as street circuits like Singapore, where drivers manage pace to extend gaps around pit stops.
• He explained that a driver doesn't need to drive "like a hooligan or dangerously" to achieve this, suggesting that managing the pace by "three or four tenths more" can effectively condense the field.
• Russell noted that on some tracks, a driver "can easily drop half a second or a second at certain points without being dangerous, without causing risk to yourself."
• Given the championship scenario, Russell anticipates that Verstappen might employ such a strategy to put Norris in a more challenging position.

The Big Picture:

This potential strategy underscores the tactical depth often employed in Formula 1, especially in championship-deciding races. While controversial to some, using track position and pace management to influence rivals is a recognized, albeit unwritten, part of F1 strategy. The outcome will depend not only on Verstappen's execution but also on how Norris and McLaren react to such a scenario.

What's next:

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is set to be a thrilling conclusion to the season. All eyes will be on Max Verstappen to see if he employs this suggested tactic and on Lando Norris to see how he navigates the race, especially if the field is deliberately bunched up. The race promises to be a masterclass in strategic driving and defensive racing.