Oscar Piastri Replaced at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as Red Bull Prepare for Major Driver Shake-Up
The 2025 Formula 1 season is set for a dramatic finale at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and the tension surrounding the title fight has only intensified following a late development: Oscar Piastri will not compete in the season-ending race, with Red Bull reportedly preparing to remove one of their current drivers ahead of the 2026 reshuffle. This unexpected twist adds yet another layer of unpredictability to what has already been one of the most fiercely contested F1 seasons in recent years.
For months, the narrative has centred around the thrilling three-way battle between Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen. These three drivers have consistently been the main protagonists at the front of the grid, trading victories, fastest laps and championship leads in a season defined by razor-thin margins. Heading into the final race, the trio remain mathematically in contention, with each driver needing a strong performance at Yas Marina to claim the ultimate prize.
Norris entered last weekend’s Qatar Grand Prix with a golden chance to secure his first world championship. Leading the standings and showing consistent pace throughout the weekend, it appeared the stars were aligning for the McLaren driver. However, the race took a turn he did not anticipate. Strategy missteps and a tense mid-race battle meant Norris could only salvage a fourth-place finish, delaying his title hopes and opening the door once again for Verstappen and Piastri.
One key moment from Qatar continues to dominate conversations: Norris’ late overtake on young Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli. The move, executed in the closing laps, earned Norris valuable extra points but came with significant controversy. Some voices—particularly from the Red Bull camp—suggested Antonelli may have intentionally left the door open for the McLaren driver. Such speculation escalated rapidly online, culminating in toxic behaviour toward the 18-year-old Italian.
In the aftermath of the race, Antonelli was subjected to shocking abuse, including death threats from anonymous social media accounts. The backlash prompted Mercedes to step in and gather evidence to present to the FIA. The governing body later issued a firm statement condemning the harassment, urging fans to uphold respect for all competitors. Red Bull, whose race engineer was accused of sparking the rumours by insinuating over the radio that Antonelli moved aside deliberately, later expressed “regret” that their radio comments had fueled the misunderstanding that led to the abuse.
All these events unfolded while the championship pendulum continued to swing unpredictably between the frontrunners. Now, another major storyline has emerged: Oscar Piastri’s sudden withdrawal from the final race. Although the full details are still developing, the announcement has sent shockwaves through the paddock. Piastri has been one of McLaren’s strongest assets this season, delivering consistent podiums and mounting a credible challenge for the title. His absence disrupts not only McLaren’s plans but the entire competitive structure of the championship-deciding weekend.
Alongside this news, reports suggest that Red Bull are preparing to overhaul their 2026 driver line-up. The team, who have faced internal tensions and inconsistent performances from one side of the garage this year, are believed to be considering a major shake-up. While Verstappen’s seat remains secure due to his long-term contract and continued front-running performances, the second seat has been the subject of intense speculation. Several names—including Liam Lawson, Yuki Tsunoda and even external talents—have been floated as potential replacements. With the team expected to make definitive announcements shortly before or during the Abu Dhabi weekend, the rumour mill is in full motion.
This combination of championship pressure, team instability and sudden driver withdrawals ensures that the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will be anything but predictable. Norris, now carrying the weight of both expectation and missed opportunities, must secure at least a top-three finish to guarantee himself the title. Verstappen, ever the opportunist in the final stages of a season, knows a victory or strong podium could place him in contention for yet another world championship. Meanwhile, the situation surrounding Piastri adds uncertainty for McLaren, potentially disrupting their strategic calculations for the most important race of the year.
As the F1 circus arrives at Yas Marina, one thing is clear: the 2025 season will conclude with one of the most dramatic showdowns in modern Formula 1 history. Between the off-track controversies, the unfolding Red Bull driver drama and the intense championship fight, fans are set for a gripping finale where every lap, every pit stop and every decision could determine who walks away with motorsport’s most coveted crown.
My personal view is that agreements will be made that if Max is not in pole then he will be taken out of the race.