Who will be crowned the 2025 World Champion in Abu Dhabi? This is the burning question as the upcoming race weekend approaches, with Max Verstappen trailing Lando Norris by just twelve championship points. The three-way battle between Norris, Verstappen, and Oscar Piastri is a hot topic of discussion even on the Thursday preceding the Grand Prix weekend. Charles Leclerc, Isack Hadjar, George Russell, and Carlos Sainz reveal who they believe is the most likely world champion.
In just a few days, the 2025 World Champion will be known. Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, and Oscar Piastri all still have a chance to take the world cup home ahead of the Abu Dhabi GP. Only sixteen points separate the entire top three. The colleagues of the title candidates are also keeping a close eye on all the developments surrounding the title fight and are already making their predictions.
Charles Leclerc has been uncertain about the championship all season long, but now dares to take a gamble. “I’ve changed my mind so many times,” the Monegasque sighs at the press conference. “I first thought Oscar, then Max. But if nothing shocking happens, I now think Lando.” Isack Hadjar – Verstappen’s new teammate in 2026 – and George Russell agree with this. “Lando,” is the short answer from both drivers when asked the question.
Carlos Sainz, former teammate of Norris, also believes that the Brit has the best cards in hand to secure his first title. “I think Abu Dhabi is a good circuit for Lando,” says the Spaniard. “Considering how well he can handle the pressure, I think he’ll pull it off.”
‘Not Fair’
Meanwhile, Russell does add a small caveat, hoping that his compatriot wins the title on his own merit. “I don’t think it’s acceptable or reasonable to ask a driver who is about to become champion to make way for his teammate,” says the Mercedes driver about potential team orders from McLaren. “I don’t think that’s fair at all. They should both get a chance and if they both lose as a result, you just say that the other did better and that’s that.”
