ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates—Two drivers are level on points ahead of the Formula One season finale in Abu Dhabi. This time it’s only for second place.
Charles Leclerc and Sergio Perez are both on 290 points going into the final race Sunday at the Yas Marina circuit. It’s a subdued echo of last year’s title-deciding spectacular between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, who also arrived in Abu Dhabi on level terms before Verstappen took the title following a heavily disputed restart procedure.
Just like last year, there’s also an element of controversy. Verstappen refused to give up sixth place to his teammate Perez at the last race in Brazil despite a team order, a decision that could cost Perez in a close fight with Leclerc on Sunday….