Verstappen Stormed to Yet Another Breathtaking Pole Position Ahead of Hamilton, with Mclaren’s Lando Norris in Third.

Safety Car Changes Everything

On Lap 53, Nicholas Latifi Crashed at Turn 14, Bringing out the Safety Car.

The Post-Race Fallout

Mercedes Were Quick to Protest the Result, Alleging That Verstappen Had Overtaken Hamilton Under the Safety Car, and Masi Failing to Follow the Fia’s Sporting Regulations Correctly.

What Was Said in 2022?

“So Only One Time, in the History of the Sport, That They Haven’t Done the Rule," Hamilton Said, Reflecting on Abu Dhabi in 2022.

F1 Abu Dhabi 2021: Michael Masi, Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen - What Happened? | F1

By Alexander Ross

• Oct 8, 2026 • 4 min read

F1 Abu Dhabi 2021: Michael Masi, Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen - What Happened? | F1

Direct Answer • Key Takeaway

F1’S Most Recent Title Battle Went to the Wire After a Titanic Duel Between Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.

Alexander Ross

Gaming, Esports & Interactive Media Writer

Alexander Ross has covered the video game industry for a decade, writing deep dives on game design, esports tournaments, VR developments, and gaming culture.

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