The final preparations for an exciting season are taking place at the Yas Marina circuit, where the conditions are almost perfect for the drivers. However, between the daytime heat and the nighttime coolness that is expected for qualifying, they must not miss the opportunity!
Ideal conditions… but temporary
For this last free practice session of the 2025 season, the sun is shining over Abu Dhabi. The temperature is high, but nothing insurmountable for these seasoned drivers. It’s a bit like preparing for a marathon under scorching heat: every drop of sweat counts, but the real test will come with the night. The drivers know that the atmosphere completely changes when the lights come on and the asphalt becomes slippery under the stars.
A remarkable performance from Russell
It is George Russell who has made the most of the situation by achieving the best time in free practice, ahead of his Mercedes teammates and the rivals from Red Bull. At this stage, one can say that the young Brit has found his voice, like a soloist shaking the stage with an electric guitar solo. His time of 1:23.455 is a demonstration of mastery and confidence, a true battle cry before the big moment of qualifying.
Norris and Verstappen lurking
But beware, it’s not a done deal yet! Far from being left behind, Lando Norris has shown that he also has sharp teeth. With a time very close to Russell’s, he comfortably settles in the slipstream of Russell. The two drivers know each other well, and this friendly rivalry adds an extra spice to this final straight. As for Max Verstappen, the reigning champion, he has not had his last word. With his legendary determination, he could very well deliver a performance as unexpected as a plot twist in an action movie.
The stakes before qualifying
As we approach qualifying, strategies begin to take shape. Each team must weigh the pros and cons of their setups to face conditions that will vary considerably between day and night. Teams must be as agile as a cat on a hot tin roof; they need to anticipate every move and adjust their plans at the last moment. In this context, free practice takes on disproportionate importance – every second recorded on the track can determine the outcome of the weekend.
An electric atmosphere at Yas Marina
The spectators, for their part, are in a frenzy. The Yas Marina circuit, with its sparkling lights and festive atmosphere, resembles a grand outdoor concert. You can feel the adrenaline rising as the crowd eagerly awaits the climax of this Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Fans are not just there to admire the single-seaters, but to experience the total package: the passion, the intensity, and that unique atmosphere that can only be found in Formula 1.
Conclusion: who will have the last word?
With changing conditions and drivers in top form, this Grand Prix promises to be a true theater of confrontations. Who will prevail in qualifying? Will Russell continue his momentum, or will Norris or Verstappen manage to defy the predictions? One thing is for sure: the stakes are high and the tension palpable. Stay tuned to find out how this final act of the 2025 season will unfold.
