Lando Norris claimed his fourth victory of the 2024 F1 season at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, cementing McLaren’s first Constructors’ Championship in 26 years. Dominating from pole position, Norris delivered a stellar performance as Ferrari secured second and third through Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc. Meanwhile, the race marked Lewis Hamilton’s final outing with Mercedes and what is likely Sergio Perez’s swan song with Red Bull.
Below, we delve into the defining themes from Abu Dhabi, exploring McLaren’s revival, Norris’s evolution, and Hamilton’s legacy in the twilight of an illustrious career.
The McLaren Revival: A Triumph of Teamwork and Vision
McLaren’s first Constructors’ title in over two decades is a testament to their unwavering commitment to rebuilding. When Zak Brown joined in 2016, the team was in disarray—hampered by outdated infrastructure, internal disputes, and an uncompetitive car. Brown’s leadership, marked by humility and a willingness to delegate, has been pivotal in the team’s resurgence.
Key to this turnaround were strategic hires, including Andreas Seidl, who spearheaded decisions like returning to Mercedes engines and building a cutting-edge wind tunnel. Current team principal Andrea Stella continues to steer McLaren’s race team with autonomy, while Brown focuses on securing sponsors, managing shareholders, and embodying the team’s spirit.
The result? A seamless partnership that allowed McLaren to focus on core racing essentials, culminating in a title-winning season that saw them outpace their former allies at Mercedes using their own engine.
Lando Norris: The Making of a Future Champion
Lando Norris’s 2024 campaign has been one of growth and resilience. Initially targeting a third-place finish, Red Bull’s mid-season decline unexpectedly thrust Norris into a championship battle. Despite the pressure, his victories in Miami, Zandvoort, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi showcased his immense potential.
This season served as a learning curve for Norris, preparing him for a stronger, more confident bid in 2025. Much like Sebastian Vettel’s trajectory with Red Bull in 2009, Norris has laid the groundwork for a serious title challenge in the seasons ahead.
Lewis Hamilton: A Legacy Revisited
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix also revisited the emotional scars of 2021 for Lewis Hamilton. As he bids farewell to Mercedes, questions loom over how his final years have been shaped by the controversial conclusion to his eighth title bid and Mercedes’ subsequent struggles.
Hamilton’s partnership with Mercedes reached a turning point with George Russell’s arrival in 2022. While Russell’s talent is undeniable, the shift disrupted the dynamic Hamilton had thrived in with Valtteri Bottas.
Hamilton’s legacy remains unparalleled, but Abu Dhabi continues to symbolize a bittersweet chapter in his storied career.
Conclusion: The Dawn of a New Era
As the 2024 season concludes, McLaren’s resurgence signals a changing of the guard in Formula 1. With Norris primed for greater success and Hamilton’s chapter at Mercedes drawing to a close, the stage is set for an exciting 2025 season.
Whether McLaren can maintain their momentum or Red Bull and Mercedes reclaim their dominance remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the spirit of competition is alive and well in Formula 1.
