Twenty one races held this year and the championship has still come down to the final 58 laps. Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton will get to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix level on points, which means that the winner on Sunday will be crowned the champion of one of the most brutally fought titles in recent years. 

While Hamilton is chasing history, aiming to become eighth-time champion, Verstappen will want to disrupt the Mercedes driver’s winning streak and claim his first crown. 

Also read: Formula 1 extends Abu Dhabi Grand Prix’s contract till 2030

Both drivers had spent the last three days relaxing in Dubai before making their way 75 minutes south for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. They are tied in the standings — the first time since 1974 the title contenders entered the deciding race equal in points — and the championship battle this season has been the most dramatic in at least a decade.

“I stayed over in Dubai, ate a few nice meals with friends and family, celebrated the birthday of my girlfriend, as well,” Verstappen said.

 Also read: Lewis Hamilton thinks Kingspan logo will be removed from his car

“These things also need to happen because, I mean, Formula One is of course one thing, but it’s also important to not forget what very important things are and it’s been nice weather and doesn’t remind me too much of wintertime back in Europe.”

Just 24 years old, Vertstappen, if he wins, will become the first Dutch world champion. He was way ahead of his arch-rival Hamilton before the latter won three races in a row to cover up 19 points. 

“With the year that we’ve had, I’m sure some people would have ruled us out being this close at the end,” Hamilton said. “And no one’s ever done eight before. I feel grateful. I remember what it’s like going for your first, so I know those experiences and the roller coaster of emotions.”

Also read: Ashes 2021: Ben Stokes’ 12 no-balls go undetected vs Australia

“I think as a driver you don’t think about these things. You just want to go to a weekend where you just want to do the best you can as a team and of course you try to win the race,” Verstappen said. “Naturally the media starts to say these things. I arrived here just trying to do the best I can and trying to be the best prepared.”

Added Hamilton: “I just don’t give it any energy. I’m here to do the best job I can with this incredible team.”

With inputs from the Associated Press