Piastri Stars in Abu Dhabi as McLaren Closes on World Championship

Oscar Piastri led a McLaren one-two in final practice at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, setting the scene for a potentially historic win. Piastri outpaced teammate Norris, while Ferrari's Leclerc faces a grid penalty. McLaren's championship hopes look strong with just 44 points left to contest.

Oscar Piastri took the lead in a dominant McLaren one-two finish during the final practice session for the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. This performance boosts McLaren's chances of winning the Formula One constructors' championship for the first time since 1998.

Piastri clocked a best time of one minute 23.433 seconds, surpassing teammate Lando Norris by 0.193 seconds. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton, preparing for his last race with Mercedes before a move to Ferrari, finished third in practice.

Red Bull's Max Verstappen, already crowned champion with a victory in Las Vegas, placed fourth. McLaren leads Ferrari by 21 points with 44 points remaining. The cooler conditions on Sunday could prove decisive for the teams.

(With inputs from agencies.)