The final starting grid of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

After 24 Formula 1 weekends in 2024, the championship is coming to an end. This weekend in Abu Dhabi, for the last race of the season, several penalties are changing the positioning of the drivers on the starting grid.

McLarens on the front row.

While the constructor title has not yet been awarded at the end of this season, McLaren has taken a significant advantage after the qualifying session by placing its two drivers on the front row. McLaren’s advantage will therefore need to be converted during the race by maintaining positions that allow the team to retain its lead in the championship.

10 penalty places for Charles Leclerc

Charles Leclerc underwent a battery change on his Ferrari, thus incurring a 10-place grid penalty. Unfortunately for the Monegasque, with a very poor qualifying position, he will only be starting in 19th place. Charles Leclerc had his best time deleted by the stewards after it was found that he exceeded track limits at turn 1. As a result, he lost his best time, preventing him from entering Q3.

Carlos Sainz is the only one who can save Ferrari, but on his own, he will not be able to truly close the points gap necessary to take P1 in the standings.

Nico Hülkenberg loses the benefit of his good qualification

Qualified in an impressive 4th place, Nico Hülkenberg’s Haas made a strong impression. However, the German driver forced his way through the pit lane by overtaking several cars. As a result, he incurs a 3-place penalty, directly benefiting Alpine. Indeed, the two teams are fighting in this final race for 6th place in the constructors’ championship. Advantage Alpine.

The Williams also penalized.

The two Williams drivers have received a new gearbox, outside the initial quota of 5 per year. As a result, Albon and Colapinto both receive 5 grid penalties. Alex Albon will start in 18th place, while Franco Colapinto will occupy the last position.

The final starting grid of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix