Max Verstappen has secured pole position for the title-deciding Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ahead of rival Lewis Hamilton in second. While he hasn't won the title yet, pole position certainly puts Verstappen at an advantage to win his first ever Formula 1 championship.
The two drivers enter the final race of the season level on points, meaning whoever finishes ahead of the other will almost surely secure the title. However, there are multiple scenarios for how the race can turn out, and nothing is guaranteed. Verstappen would also win the title if he finishes tenth with the fastest lap and Hamilton finishes ninth.
In the event that neither driver finishes the race, Verstappen would win the title having won more races this season. The way this season has turned out, not many will rule out the likelihood of this scenario. The two drivers have raced aggressively all season, colliding three times as a result. The FIA have warned that an unsportsmanlike collision could receive a points deduction or a race ban.
While all these scenarios remain a possibility, Verstappen's pole position places him at the driving seat. His reaction to his Abu Dhabi qualifying result shows how important it is that he starts first on the grid come Sunday (via Twitter):
“AMAZING! Pole is simply the best way to start the final race. Great team effort.”
AMAZING! Pole is simply the best way to start the final race💪 Great team effort👌Thank you, @SChecoPerez, @redbullracing and @hondaracingf1 for the push 👊 #AbuDhabiGP🇦🇪 pic.twitter.com/1p1vUCdvLx
— Max Verstappen (@Max33Verstappen) December 11, 2021
Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes looked strong in the practice sessions, but Max Verstappen and Red Bull ultimately delivered in qualifying. Crucially, Verstappen's teammate Sergio Perez is fourth ahead of Hamilton's teammate Valtteri Bottas, which could potentially work in Verstappen's favor. Whatever the case, Formula 1 fans like Joel Embiid can expect the most exciting final race of the season in years.
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