F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Ricciardo: Verstappen-Hamilton showdown a 'dream scenario' for F1

Daniel Ricciardo says the title showdown that will take place in Abu Dhabi between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton is a "dream scenario" for F1.

Many championship battles in F1 have gone down to the wire in the past, but next weekend's title climax will be only the second time in Grand Prix racing's history that two drivers will enter the final round level on points.

The first time such a scenario unfolded was at the US Grand Prix at Watkins Glen in 1974, when McLaren's Emerson Fittipaldi defeated Ferrari's Clay Regazzoni by just three points.

"It's what you hope for every year in this sport," said the McLaren driver, quoted by Motorsport.com. "You want a battle like this.

"You have got the veteran record holder on the one hand, and then the youngest ever winner on the other.

"It is a really cool battle and it is a great story. Obviously they are going toe-to-toe, and it is real genuine battle."

Ricciardo admitted to being envious of his rivals' opportunity to duke it out for F1's supreme prize.

But for fans, the battle between Verstappen and Hamilton will be a spectacle to behold.

"I have some envy not being a part of it, but ultimately for the sport and as a fan of the sport, it is a dream scenario," added the eight-time Grand Prix winner.
"It is the highest-pressure scenario as they are both on equal points.

"Ultimately who wins next week will win. It’s cool, and as a fan, it is awesome. Just when you think Netflix can’t get anymore exciting!"

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Michael Delaney

Recent Posts

Horner in Jerez: Surprise MotoGP visit sparks ownership visit

The asphalt at Jerez was already sizzling on Saturday, but the temperature in the MotoGP…

17 hours ago

Michele Alboreto: Ferrari's last Italian winner

On this day in 2001, the world of motorsport mourned the loss of Michele Alboreto,…

19 hours ago

Ouch! Alesi spins vintage F1 Ferrari into Monaco barrier

Former Grand Prix driver Jean Alesi, who famously wore his heart on his sleeve during…

21 hours ago

Montoya’s shock call: Ban Verstappen from GT3 racing!

Former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has called out Red Bull for letting Max Verstappen…

22 hours ago

‘Starting to pay off’: Sainz encouraged by positive step for Williams

While the start of the 2026 season has been a heavy lift for Williams –…

23 hours ago

Brown: Cozy team alliances a risk for F1’s ‘sporting fairness’

Zak Brown has once again lit the fuse on one of the sport’s most controversial…

1 day ago