Driver of the Day: Verstappen’s Dominance Marks End of Historic F1 Season

8 December 2025 Motorsport

Understanding the Driver of the Day Award

Introduced in 2016, the Driver of the Day award is voted for by fans during each Grand Prix and announced at the end of the race. This fan-voted honour recognises exceptional performances on track and has become an integral part of Formula 1’s engagement with supporters worldwide. The award allows fans to celebrate drivers who deliver outstanding performances, regardless of their final race position.

Verstappen’s Commanding Performance in Abu Dhabi

Max Verstappen claimed Driver of the Day at the 2025 Abu Dhabi GP with 19% of the vote, edging out Lando Norris on 16.3%, yet the story centred on the 24-year-old McLaren driver securing his F1 world title with a P3 finish. The Red Bull driver delivered a masterclass in race control at Yas Marina Circuit, demonstrating why he remains one of the sport’s most formidable competitors.

Verstappen’s launch was decisive, securing the inside line into Turn 1 and positioning his Red Bull perfectly to neutralise pressure from both drivers behind, and his early authority shaped the flow of the grand prix. His ability to manage tyre performance whilst maintaining race pace proved crucial in securing his eighth Grand Prix victory of the season.

A Season of Achievements

Max Verstappen was named ‘Driver of the Day’ for the eighth time this season following the season finale in Abu Dhabi. This accolade caps off a remarkable year for the Dutchman, who previously earned the award at the Las Vegas Grand Prix just weeks earlier with another commanding victory.

Whilst Verstappen showcased his racing prowess throughout the finale, the championship ultimately went to Lando Norris, who drove a measured race to clinch his maiden world title by a narrow two-point margin. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix thus provided a fitting conclusion to the 2025 season, celebrating both Verstappen’s race-winning excellence and Norris’s championship triumph.

Significance for Formula 1 Fans

The Driver of the Day award continues to give fans an active voice in recognising outstanding performances. As Formula 1 evolves with new talents emerging alongside established champions, this fan-driven recognition remains an important connection between drivers and supporters, highlighting moments of brilliance that might otherwise be overshadowed by championship narratives.