Max Verstappen is confirmed to stay at Red Bull for 2026, but the pressure is piling up. His performance-related exit clause is no longer active, tying him to the team amid growing concerns about Red Bull’s ability to deliver a competitive car under the incoming 2026 regulations. The team is still reeling from strategic errors in Belgium, with Yuki Tsunoda’s Q3 momentum wasted due to poor calls. As the team turns its focus toward long-term development, their performance in Abu Dhabi could signal what to expect in the new era of F1.

Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris are neck and neck in the championship fight, separated by just 16 points. With both drivers delivering podiums and even a 1-2 finish in Belgium, the internal rivalry is turning into one of the biggest stories of the year. McLaren leads the constructors’ standings and might clinch both titles in Abu Dhabi if they hold off Ferrari and Mercedes. The last time McLaren sealed a championship was in 2008, and the last teammate showdown in Abu Dhabi happened in 2016. History may repeat itself under the lights of Yas Marina.

Ferrari and Mercedes are far behind McLaren in both standings, but that hasn't stopped them from making headlines. Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton are Ferrari’s top scorers, while George Russell continues to anchor Mercedes with consistency. Mercedes also has rookie Kimi Antonelli making waves. While a championship looks unlikely, strong finishes in Abu Dhabi could set the tone for their 2026 campaigns. Both teams are focused on regaining dominance and will be using the last races of the year as data-gathering missions for next season’s car.

Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit now boasts a fully upgraded pit building and grandstand area. Teams benefit from expanded garages and better access, while fans on the main straight enjoy enhanced views and comfort. This year, every ticket includes access to attractions like Louvre Abu Dhabi, Teamlab Phenomena, and Yas Island theme parks. General Admission options like Garden on Yas offer DJs, food courts, and concert access. The race also aligns with F1’s Net Zero goals through solar energy, water-saving systems, and zero-plastic zones, cementing Yas Marina’s place as a sustainability leader.

The 2026 season already has big moves in motion. Valtteri Bottas is rumored to join Cadillac, and Mick Schumacher might land at Williams. Revolut has signed on as title partner for the new Audi F1 Team, signaling a tech-forward direction for sponsorships. On the regulation front, the FIA continues refining 2026 car designs after driver pushback over energy recovery systems. Meanwhile, Brad Pitt’s F1 film is returning to IMAX this August, pushing F1 deeper into pop culture. The 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix isn’t just the end of a season. It’s the beginning of a new chapter in Formula 1.