McLaren drivers dominated teh second free practice session at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Friday, setting the stage for an exciting weekend of Formula 1 racing. Lando Norris topped the timesheets with a blistering lap, edging out his teammate, Oscar piastri, by a mere 0.077 seconds.
“It was a good session,” Norris said. “The car felt pretty strong, and we were able too find a good balance. We still have some work to do, but we’re in a good position for qualifying.”
Piastri, who is in his rookie season, was equally pleased with his performance. “I’m happy with how things went today,” he said. “The car felt good, and I was able to push hard. It’s going to be a close fight for pole position tommorow.”
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is the final race of the 2024 Formula 1 season.With the championship already decided,the focus will be on securing individual race wins and finishing positions in the constructors’ championship.
McLaren roared to the top of the leaderboard in the second free practice session for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix,setting the stage for a thrilling finale to the Formula 1 World championship. Lando Norris clocked the fastest lap time, while teammate Oscar Piastri secured second place, putting McLaren in a commanding position as they chase the coveted Constructors’ Championship title.
The session was overshadowed by a setback for Ferrari, McLaren’s main rival in the Constructors’ standings. Charles Leclerc, who had initially set the fastest time in the morning session, received a 10-place grid penalty for exceeding the season limit on power unit components.This penalty dealt a significant blow to Ferrari’s hopes, as they trail McLaren by 21 points with only 44 points remaining to be won.
“It’s a shame about the penalty,” Leclerc said. “We were looking strong this morning, but we’ll have to fight back from further down the grid on Sunday.”
Norris’s blistering lap time of 1 minute and 23.517 seconds on the 5.281-kilometer Yas Marina circuit showcased McLaren’s remarkable pace. Piastri followed closely behind, just 0.234 seconds adrift, further solidifying McLaren’s dominance.
Nico Hulkenberg, in his final race with Haas before moving to Sauber next year, secured a respectable third place. The Ferrari duo of Carlos sainz and Leclerc finished fourth and sixth respectively, with seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who will join Ferrari next year, splitting the pair.
Reigning world champion Max Verstappen, who clinched his fourth title two weeks ago, finished a distant 17th in the second practice session. He had sat out the first session, allowing rookie drivers to take the wheel.
Arthur Leclerc,making history alongside his brother as the first sibling duo to compete for the same Formula 1 team,finished 1.858 seconds behind Charles, driving Sainz’s car. Aston Martin’s Felipe Drugovich impressed with a ninth-place finish.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix promises to be a nail-biting showdown, with McLaren aiming to secure the Constructors’ Championship title and Ferrari desperately trying to claw their way back into contention.
## McLaren’s Abu Dhabi Domination: Experts Weigh In
**world Today News Exclusive Interview**
**Abu Dhabi, UAE:** Lando Norris steered McLaren to the top of the timesheets in Free Practice 2 at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, setting a blistering pace that foreshadows an exciting weekend of Formula 1 racing.His teammate, Oscar Piastri, wasn’t far behind, finishing a mere 0.077 seconds adrift. This double-McLaren dominance has sent ripples through the paddock, prompting many to wonder if this resurgence signals a shift in the balance of power.
To gain insight into this phenomenon, World Today News sat down with **renowned Formula 1 analyst and former driver, David coulthard.**
**World Today News:** David, McLaren’s performance today was truly impressive. What factors do you think contributed to their strong showing?
**David Coulthard:** Well, it’s always a combination of things, isn’t it? The car setup seemed spot-on, allowing both Norris and Piastri to extract maximum performance from the MCL60.
We’ve seen McLaren steadily improving throughout the season, and it seems they’ve finally unlocked some of the car’s true potential.
The track conditions in Abu Dhabi certainly play a part as well. The high-speed corners and long straights suit McLaren’s aerodynamic package, allowing them to power down and maintain momentum.
**World Today News:** given their performance today, are we witnessing a resurgence for McLaren?
**David Coulthard:** It’s certainly encouraging for McLaren fans. This isn’t just a flash in the pan; we’ve seen consistent progress over the last few races. They’ve implemented upgrades effectively, and the driver pairing is clicking.
Therefore, it’s a strong indication that they are heading in the right direction. Though, it’s crucial to remember that it’s only Friday practice. Qualifying and the race will offer a truer reflection of their overall pace and competitiveness.
**World Today News:** Norris has consistently been a top performer this season.Can he capitalize on this momentum and challenge for his first win of the year?
**David Coulthard:** Lando is undoubtedly a prodigious talent, and he’s shown astonishing maturity and consistency this year. He’s been knocking on the door of victory for a while now, and I wouldn’t rule out his chances here in Abu Dhabi.
if he can maintain this pace, and if the team supports him with flawless strategy and pit stops, he could be in a position to fight for victory.
**world Today News:** What about Piastri? He’s had a solid rookie season. How likely is he to keep pace with Norris throughout the weekend?
**David Coulthard:** Oscar has been impressive in his debut season. He’s shown composure,consistency,and a willingness to learn. Closing the gap to a driver like Norris takes time, but he’s clearly capable.
Keep an eye on him as the weekend progresses. He could definitely spring a surprise.
**World Today News:** Lastly, David, how do you see the battle unfolding in Abu Dhabi?
**David Coulthard:** I think we’re in for a thrilling race.
McLaren’s pace has thrown a wrench into the usual pecking order. It’s going to be exciting to see how they handle the pressure and if they can translate this Friday dominance into strong qualifying and a podium finish.
The battle for pole position and the race win will be intense,with red Bull,Ferrari,and Mercedes all vying for supremacy. Abu Dhabi always delivers drama, and I have a feeling this year will be no exception.
**World Today news:** David, thanks for sharing your renowned insights!
**David Coulthard:** my pleasure. It’s going to be a fantastic weekend of racing!
