Formula 1: McLaren Takes Lead in Constructors' Championship as Norris and Piastri Dominate Abu Dhabi Qualifying
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Abu Dhabi, Dec 7 (NationPress) The concluding qualifying session of the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix witnessed Lando Norris seizing pole position, with his teammate Oscar Piastri joining him on the front row. This outcome is a vital milestone for the team as they aim for their first Constructors' Championship in years.
The initial qualifying segment featured several surprises, with none more unexpected than Lewis Hamilton's early elimination in his final qualifying session for Mercedes. A misplaced bollard on the track, dislodged by Kevin Magnussen, caused Hamilton to hit it, damaging his vehicle and hindering his lap time. He ultimately finished a disheartening 18th.
Other drivers who fell short in Q1 included Alex Albon (Williams), Zhou Guanyu (Kick Sauber), Franco Colapinto (Williams), and Jack Doohan (Alpine), who was participating in his inaugural F1 qualifying session.
As Q2 progressed, the competition for a top-10 finish heated up, with Max Verstappen initially setting the pace. However, Carlos Sainz (Ferrari) and Nico Hulkenberg (Haas) delivered remarkable performances, with Hulkenberg notably qualifying in the top four—a commendable feat in his farewell race with Haas.
Charles Leclerc faced disappointment in his session as his fastest lap was annulled for exceeding track limits. Despite an improved attempt, he ended up 14th, pushed to the back of the grid due to a 10-place penalty for an engine replacement.
In Q3, Verstappen set an early benchmark with a time of 1:22.945, but it was Norris who made a spectacular comeback in the final runs, posting a stunning 1:22.595 to earn his second pole position of the season. Piastri also rose to the occasion, recording a 1:22.804 to secure a front-row lockout for McLaren.
This outcome provides a significant morale boost for McLaren as they head into the race with a genuine chance of clinching their first Constructors' Championship since 1998. Meanwhile, Hamilton's premature exit in his final qualifying session for Mercedes was a poignant moment, yet the sport's most decorated driver is resolute in finishing the season on a high note.
