Watch the Abu Dhabi GP race start as Verstappen holds lead

Oscar Piastri delivered a sensational start at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, executing an audacious overtake on McLaren teammate Lando Norris during the opening lap. While Max Verstappen confidently maintained his lead, Piastri, starting on hard tyres, launched exceptionally well. He seized second place from Norris, who was on mediums, with a daring move around the outside in the final sector of the Yas Marina Circuit. This strategic switch saw Piastri leapfrog his teammate, demonstrating McLaren's bold tyre choices and the Australian's impressive race craft. Further back, George Russell dropped positions, and Charles Leclerc fended off Fernando Alonso in a tight battle for fourth.