(December 9, 2021)- Hot on the heels of an eventful race in Saudi Arabia, I’m now in Abu Dhabi preparing for the final round of the year.
With a new grippy track layout to discover, last weekend’s race in Jeddah was always going to be exhilarating. And that was before some of the on-track incidents that really made things crazy.
I tried to keep things as clean as I could – but there were a few close calls. On the second restart, which took out three cars, I have zero clue how I made it through. It was like a movie where the protagonist somehow, miraculously, emerges unscathed from utter chaos.
I missed running into Norris by… I don’t know how much. It was close. I had to do a double take – like “really, my car’s okay?” Considering that, P12 at the checkered flag was a good result. I couldn’t have done much more.
Heading into the last event of any racing season brings mixed emotions. As a team we want to end on a high by maintaining P8 in the championship – that’s the ultimate goal. On a personal level, my own result doesn’t really matter as much, so long as P8 is delivered and I feel I maximise the car’s potential.
The track has had a few changes since 2020. These should improve the racing, and perhaps suit our car slightly better.
The last race also means we’re edging closer to 2022 – which everyone has a keen eye on. After Abu Dhabi it’ll be straight back to the factory to get cracking on the preparations for next season.
Of course, a lot of the focus this weekend will be on the title battle. It’s amazing for the championship to be tied like this, with both teams and drivers so evenly matched.
Who’s going to win? It’s too tricky to call. I always make a point of watching the races back on TV, and this year’s battle has been thrilling. Whoever wins will have had an amazing season and they can be very proud.
Finally, Abu Dhabi will be my last race alongside my favourite (and let’s face it my only…) F1 team-mate George. It’s been a pleasure working with him these past two seasons. Check out my socials for a little highlights reel. :)
Nick
