Abu Dhabi GP: McLaren triumphs over Ferrari for prestigious F1 constructors' crown
McLaren clinches constructors' championship at Abu Dhabi GP, first title since 2008
McLaren has emerged victorious, securing the coveted constructors' championship at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. This triumph on Sunday marks a monumental comeback for the storied team, as they claim their first Formula 1 title since Lewis Hamilton clinched the drivers' championship back in 2008.
The historic win breaks a lengthy 26-year drought for McLaren, hearkening back to their last constructors' title in 1998 with the dynamic duo of Mika Hakkinen and David Coulthard behind the wheel.
Lando Norris was the hero of the day, spearheading the team's charge with a brilliant race win. Norris glided past the checkered flag ahead of Ferrari rivals Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc, who were left to settle for the lower steps of the podium.
The day was not without its nerve-wracking moments for McLaren, as their second driver, rookie Oscar Piastri, became entangled in a dramatic first-corner clash with Max Verstappen. The incident led to penalties for both drivers, with Verstappen being penalized for the collision and Piastri receiving a subsequent 10-second penalty for a separate scuffle with Franco Colapinto. Despite the setbacks, Piastri managed to cross the finish line in 10th place.
Ultimately, Norris' outstanding performance ensured that McLaren comfortably clinched the championship by a margin of 14 points, showcasing the team's resilience and strategic excellence.
This landmark achievement brings McLaren's total to nine constructors' titles, positioning them alongside Williams in the annals of history, both sitting second in all-time standings just behind Ferrari's impressive tally of 16.
The seeds of McLaren's resurgence were planted during the mid-season at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where they ended Red Bull's commanding 55-race stint at the top of the standings. A pivotal moment unfolded at the Miami Grand Prix, where a significant upgrade to the car's performance put Norris and Piastri in the running for race victories, injecting fresh momentum into their championship ambitions.
Read next ❯ Ferrari to reveal Hamilton's debut F1 car on February 19 at MaranelloWhile Norris was able to give Verstappen a run for his money, McLaren's shining star had to bow out from drivers' title contention following a critical race in Las Vegas two races prior.
McLaren's successful campaign is a testament to their relentless pursuit of excellence and adaptation in the face of fierce competition. Their return to the pinnacle of constructors' glory heralds a new era for the prestigious team as Formula 1 prepares for its next season of high-octane racing.
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