F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2021: Race Summary

Opening Laps

• The race starts with Hamilton taking the lead from Verstappen at the start.
• Notable movements:
  • Hamilton leads into the first corner.
  • Sergio Perez moves into third place.
  • Hamilton maintains the lead with Bottas and Perez following.
• Early incidents include:
  • Hamilton and Verstappen nearly collide, leading Hamilton to go off-track.
  • The stewards decide no investigation is necessary.

Mid-Race Developments

• Verstappen pits early, planning a single pit stop.
• Perez stays on track, temporarily taking the lead to aid Verstappen.
• Perez effectively holds up Hamilton, allowing Verstappen to close the gap.
  • Hamilton eventually passes Perez on Lap 21.
  • Perez's efforts praised for aiding Verstappen.

Safety Car Incident

• Nicholas Latifi crashes, leading to a Safety Car deployment.
• Verstappen takes advantage by pitting for soft tyres.
• Initial confusion as lapped cars are not allowed to overtake the Safety Car.
  • Decision reversed, allowing lapped cars to overtake.
  • This sets up a one-lap race between Hamilton and Verstappen.

Final Lap and Controversy

• The final lap sees Hamilton leading but on older tyres compared to Verstappen.
• Verstappen makes a decisive move on Turn 5, taking the lead from Hamilton.
• Controversy arises as the race ends with disputes over the handling of the Safety Car.
• Mercedes is unhappy with race decisions, Red Bull celebrates.

Conclusion

• Max Verstappen wins his first World Championship.
• Hamilton finishes in second, despite leading most of the race.
• The race and championship end with significant drama and controversy.

Key Takeaways

• Outstanding teamwork displayed by Sergio Perez for Verstappen.
• The race highlighted by strategic plays, pit stops, and a crucial Safety Car decision.
• Verstappen's victory marks the end of a highly competitive season.
• Anticipation builds for the 2022 season, following a thrilling 2021 finale.