The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, traditionally the Formula 1 season finale, has witnessed both the zenith and the decline of Red Bull's dominance in recent years. The Yas Marina Circuit, since its introduction to the F1 calendar in 2009, has been the stage for dramatic title deciders and unforgettable moments. Two Abu Dhabi GPs, in particular, stand out as pivotal chapters in the Red Bull saga: the controversial 2021 race and the recently concluded 2025 season finale.
The 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix remains etched in the memory of F1 fans worldwide for its unprecedented drama and contentious ending. Heading into the race, Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton were tied on points, setting the stage for a winner-takes-all showdown. Hamilton led for much of the race, seemingly on course to secure his record-breaking eighth World Championship title. However, a late safety car period, triggered by Nicholas Latifi's crash, dramatically altered the race's trajectory.
Race director Michael Masi's decisions during the safety car period sparked widespread controversy. Masi initially stated that lapped cars would not be allowed to unlap themselves, then reversed the decision, allowing only the cars between Hamilton and Verstappen to do so. This placed Verstappen, on fresh tires, directly behind Hamilton for a final lap sprint. Verstappen seized the opportunity, overtaking Hamilton to win the race and his first World Championship.
The aftermath of the race was filled with intense debate and scrutiny. Mercedes protested the race results, but the FIA ultimately upheld Verstappen's victory. The controversy surrounding Masi's actions led to his removal from his position and prompted significant changes to the race officiating procedures. While Verstappen's win marked Red Bull's first Driver's Championship since 2013, it was overshadowed by the controversial circumstances.
Fast forward to 2025, and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix presented a different narrative. Red Bull's dominance, which had been a defining feature of the previous seasons, faced a serious challenge. McLaren emerged as a formidable force, with Lando Norris leading the charge.
The 2025 season saw McLaren disrupt Red Bull's reign. While Max Verstappen secured pole position for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the race unfolded in a way that ultimately crowned Lando Norris as the 2025 F1 World Champion. Verstappen won the race, but Norris's third-place finish was sufficient to secure the points he needed to clinch his maiden title. Oscar Piastri, also driving for McLaren, finished second.
Red Bull's struggles in 2025 were multifaceted. While Verstappen continued to deliver strong performances, the team's overall car performance lacked consistency. The second driver seat proved to be a persistent challenge, with neither Yuki Tsunoda nor Liam Lawson able to consistently score points.
The 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marked not just the end of a season, but potentially the end of an era of Red Bull dominance. McLaren's resurgence, coupled with the challenges faced by Red Bull, suggests a shifting landscape in Formula 1. The race at Yas Marina Circuit served as a symbolic passing of the torch, with Lando Norris and McLaren poised to lead the sport into a new chapter. While Red Bull's legacy remains undeniable, the 2025 season indicates that their reign at the top may be coming to a close.
