Since the highly controversial finish at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to finish the 2021 Formula 1 season, the sport has been in disarray. What will the future hold?
Max Verstappen claimed his first Formula 1 title over 7x winner Lewis Hamilton in what had been an incredibly competitive (and often very heated) fight between the two that extended throughout the Formula 1 season. With both drivers entering the final race tied–something that had not happened in Formula 1 in 50 years–the December 12 race ended in perhaps the worst possible way. Here’s a recap of what transpired.
With Lewis Hamilton closing in on his eighth world championship, FIA director Michael Masi incorrectly applied F1 rules, reinforcing a restart on the final lap. Verstappen on much fresher tires quickly overtook Hamilton to win the race and the title.
Almost immediately, Mercedes and Hamilton protested how the race was conducted, which almost certainly caused Hamilton to lose. Mercedes dropped its protest of the race on the guarantee that FIA would conduct a robust and detailed analysis of what happened at the race. The report is set to be released two days prior to the beginning of the 2022 season, ensuring that a cloud hangs over Formula 1 for at least another two months.
Not only is this report likely going to contain equivocal findings, but it could also determine whether Lewis Hamilton returns to Formula 1. Hamilton–the undisputed face of the sport over the last decade and known for his social activism and the lifestyle he lives–has been said to be “disillusioned” with Formula 1 as a result of the Abu Dhabi outcome. It would be a blow to the sport if arguably the greatest driver in the sport’s history was to leave the grid right at the time when a capable competitor (Verstappen) emerged on the scene.
Mercedes and Hamilton are hoping that the review will propel changes in how the sport is governed, including how rules are interpreted and applied. There is also the matter of removing Masi as a race director.
The sport’s credibility is at stake. Unless it is restored, Formula 1 will remain in a period of uncertainty and shaky ground. Formula 1’s future will unfold soon.
