Lewis Hamilton caps title winning season by cruising to victory in Abu Dhabi GP as Verstappen edges Leclerc in standings
LEWIS HAMILTON coasted to victory in a processional Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to take his 11th victory of the season.
The F1 world champion had arguably the easiest race of the campaign and was untroubled throughout.
He was already 1.6 seconds clear after the first lap and crossed the line 16.7 seconds ahead of Max Verstappen, who was second.
Hamilton, who did donuts on the grid in celebration, said: “I can assure you I am sweating, but what a race. What a weekend!
“I am proud and super grateful for this incredible team who have continued to push all year.
“Even though we had the championship won, we kept our head down to get the most out of this beautiful car. I feel so happy with today.”
Charles Leclerc finished third in his Ferrari, however, his car is currently pending an investigation after a random fuel check by the FIA before the race.
It is believed that his Ferrari was carrying too much fuel, which is expected to result in a disqualification for the Monaco-born racer.
If the 22-year-old is booted out, then Valtteri Bottas, who finished fourth, would be promoted to third on the podium.
It had been a tricky weekend for the Finn, who announced his divorce on Thursday, as he was forced to start the race from the back of the grid due to engine penalties.
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Sebastian Vettel crossed the line in fifth ahead of Red Bull’s Alex Albon.
Sixth-place in the overall championship was snatched on the last lap by Carlos Sainz of McLaren, who took a point to nudge past Pierre Gasly on a nightmare trudge to the finish for the Frenchman.
But Lando Norris’ valiant attempt to enter the top ten failed agonisingly as Sergio Perez swept past the rookie with fresher tyres near the end.