Sport

Verstappen leads Red Bull one-two in final Abu Dhabi GP practice

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton ended the one-hour running in sixth

Max Verstappen during the final practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi at Yas Marina Circuit. Photograph: Getty Images

Sat Dec 12 2020 - 12:11

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen produced the quickest lap of final practice for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The Dutchman saw off his team-mate Alexander Albon by half a second as Red Bull completed a one-two in the concluding practice session of the year at the Yas Marina circuit.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton ended the one-hour running in sixth — but there will be more speed to come from his Mercedes team when the cars hit the track for qualifying later on Saturday.

Formula One is gearing up for its last action of the year following a breathless Covid-disturbed calendar of 17 races inside just 24 weeks.

READ MORE

Hamilton wrapped up his record-equalling title in Turkey last month, but after missing the Sakhir Grand Prix with coronavirus, the Mercedes driver will be keen to capture his 12th win of the year on Sunday.

The 35-year-old finished 0.761 seconds down on Verstappen with team-mate Bottas even further back in ninth.

But the Mercedes team will ramp up the power for the final qualifying session of the year, as Hamilton looks to claim the 99th pole of his career.

Elsewhere, Daniel Ricciardo finished third for Renault in his last appearance for the French team before he joins McLaren.

LATEST STORIES