Max Verstappen won the World Championship in a controversial fashion on the final lap in Abu Dhabi. Hamilton was leading and appeared to be in control until a safety car was pulled out following an accident with only a few circuits to go before the checkered flag. Verstappen was able to overtake on the last lap after loading up on fresh tyres.
P1 at the #AbuDhabiGP
@Max33Verstappen wins the 2021 #F1 Drivers' Championship
#SimplyLovely pic.twitter.com/AEogWcphIk
— Oracle Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) December 12, 2021
However, there was a lot of debate on who won. Between Hamilton and Verstappen, there were 5 backmarkers. When the safety car came in, the Race Director determined that the back-markers may overtake. Verstappen’s attack will be considerably simpler. With one lap remaining and new tyres, Verstappen drove ahead on the first straight and won. And by winning, he earned his first Championship.