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- By Nicole Jackson
- 16 Apr 2026
After a crucial victory at the Lusail Grand Prix, the Red Bull driver has substantially closed the gap in the title race. Now sitting just a dozen points behind leader the British driver and leading teammate his McLaren rival, the scene is set for a electrifying three-way season finale at the famous Yas Marina Circuit.
The Dutchman's latest win was not at all straightforward. While he delivered a superb drive for his team, the race outcome was heavily influenced by a controversial strategic move from the McLaren team. Opting not to pit during an initial safety car period, McLaren effectively gifted the initiative to Verstappen, who capitalized impeccably.
"I'm thrilled, I'm happy to go there and have a go at it," Verstappen commented. "My mindset is with just positive energy. I try everything I can but at the same time, even without the title, I still know that I had an amazing season."
This philosophy according to him takes a lot of the pressure. The goal for the final round is straightforward: to get the most from each opportunity from himself and the machine.
The remarkable aspect of this championship charge particularly notable is the margin he has fought back. After the Dutch Grand Prix in late August, he was a staggering 104 points behind the championship leader his rival and had publicly written off his title chances.
The turnaround began with substantial performance updates introduced by his team at the Monza. Changes to the car's floor and front wing rectified long-standing handling problems, allowing Verstappen to regain confidence with the chassis once more.
From then on, his performance has been utterly formidable, achieving a quintet of triumphs and multiple podiums. He was quick to praise the unified work behind this comeback.
"We have achieved victories where maybe it seemed unlikely, through the optimal strategy as a group," he noted. "The partnership with my engineer, GP and the every member... we are really well integrated."
With the paddock head to Abu Dhabi, the championship picture is crystal clear.
The intensity rests heavily on McLaren, who have seen a sizable lead disappear due to recent setbacks, including a double disqualification in Las Vegas. For Verstappen, the situation brings a sense of freedom, transforming the final race into a simple opportunity to attack with everything to gain.
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