The 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will forever be remembered as one of the most dramatic and controversial races in Formula 1 history. Held at the stunning Yas Marina Circuit, this race was the final showdown of an intense season-long battle between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton—two titans of the sport, both tied on points going into the last race.

The High-Stakes Championship Battle

From the moment the lights went out, the race was a fierce duel between Hamilton and Verstappen. Hamilton took the lead early and controlled much of the race, while Verstappen struggled to find the pace to challenge him. However, everything changed in the closing laps.

Experience the Thrill with a Supercar Rental

For motorsport fans visiting Abu Dhabi, there’s no better way to embrace the Formula 1 spirit than by renting a luxury supercar. Whether it’s a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or McLaren, driving along the smooth highways and iconic roads near Yas Marina Circuit offers an adrenaline-filled taste of speed and performance. Many high-end rental services in Abu Dhabi allow visitors to experience these machines firsthand, making the F1 weekend even more unforgettable.

The Controversial Safety Car Decision

With just a few laps remaining, Nicholas Latifi crashed, bringing out a late safety car. This set the stage for one of the most debated moments in F1 history. The race director, Michael Masi, made a controversial call to allow only a select number of lapped cars to un-lap themselves, setting up a one-lap sprint to the finish.

On the final lap, Verstappen, now on fresh soft tires, made a daring move on Hamilton at Turn 5, seizing the lead and holding on until the checkered flag. This overtake secured his first-ever Formula 1 World Championship, ending Mercedes' dominance and marking the start of a new era in the sport.

Why It Was So Memorable

Title decided on the last lap of the last race – a once-in-a-lifetime scenario.

Massive controversy over race control decisions, sparking debates that led to rule changes.

First Dutch world champion in F1 history, making it a historic moment for Verstappen and the Netherlands.

Emotional rollercoaster for fans worldwide, with heartbreak for Hamilton and triumph for Verstappen.

The 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was more than just a race—it was a moment that redefined the sport, changed regulations, and will be talked about for decades.