The exciting action on track in Formula 1 is already underway for the 2024 season, with the best drivers on the planet competing for points in order to achieve their personal and collective goals for the campaign ahead.
However, like every season, the curtain will come down on the season later in the year in Abu Dhabi, with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix forming the final leg of the campaign. A lot is set to happen in the online F1 betting before the November curtain-closer, but what could be awarded at the race later in the season, and what could be some of the biggest talking points surrounding the race at Yas Marina Circuit?
History Of Race
The early formations of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix were put into practice in 2007 when Formula 1 hosted its first-ever Festival. The success of this inaugural event in the Middle East saw the first-ever Grand Prix in the region announced in 2009. History was made following the first staging of the event, as it was one of the night races on the schedule. It would also be an exciting edition of the race with Sebastian Vettel landing victory.
For the first time in history, the championship was determined at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2010, with Vettel edging out Fernando Alonso in the final race of the season. The German would enjoy an excellent period of success throughout the first editions of the race, winning the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on three occasions between 2009 and 2013.
Controversial 2021 Edition
One of the most controversial races in Formula 1 history was staged in Abu Dhabi, with the intense battle between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen going down to the final race of the season. It was a win for the Dutchman in the season-defining race, as Verstappen was given the opportunity to overtake Hamilton on the final lap.
The decision was revered for being incredibly controversial, with race director Michael Masi appearing to follow the incorrect procedure following the safety car. Mercedes initially appealed the race result before dropping the case. It is also something that the FIA has investigated, and Masi was replaced in his role ahead of the start of the 2022 season. The success for Verstappen would kick-start a period of domination for the driver and his Red Bull team.
More Success For Verstappen?
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has been a happy hunting ground for Verstappen in recent editions, and the Dutchman will be aiming to record a fifth straight success in the race in 2024. Verstappen finished clear of the field to win the 2023 edition, which was also the record-setting seventh success for Red Bull. Given that Verstappen is already the clear favorite to win the world championship once again this year, he will likely be a leading contender at the top of the betting.
It has been a dominant start to the season for the reigning world champion, as he has won all but one of the races over the early months of the campaign. Verstappen got his title challenge back on track in the Japanese Grand Prix, finishing well clear of the field to extend his advantage. Such has been his dominance, and it’s likely that he will have the title wrapped up before the race in Abu Dhabi.
Swansongs For A Number of Drivers
The 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will signal the changing of the guard at a number of teams across the paddock. Most notably, it will be the final start in a Mercedes for Lewis Hamilton, with the multiple-time world champions joining Ferrari from the start of the 2025 season. Carlos Sainz will also be making his last start for Ferrari, but there has been no word yet as to where the Spanish driver will be competing next season.
It could also be all change at Haas and Sauber, with all four drivers across the teams yet to sign new deals. Sergio Perez could also be making his final start for Red Bull, with the Mexican’s long-term future with the team having been up for debate since the start of 2023.
Conclusion
It will be an exciting conclusion to the 2024 F1 season this year, as a number of drivers will be looking to end their campaign on a high note with success in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. That will make it an unmissable event on the sporting, as well as the F1 betting calendar for November 2024, but it could be challenging to overlook the dominance of Max Verstappen.
