Fri Dec 06 16:38:51 UTC 2024: ## Leclerc’s Penalty Slams Ferrari’s Title Hopes in Abu Dhabi GP

**Abu Dhabi, UAE** – Ferrari’s bid for their first Formula One constructors’ championship since 2008 suffered a major setback on Friday as Charles Leclerc was handed a 10-place grid penalty for a battery change ahead of the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The penalty significantly impacts Ferrari’s chances of overtaking McLaren in the standings.

Leclerc, fastest in the first practice session, will start Sunday’s race from a significantly lower position after Ferrari confirmed the illegal battery change. This comes as McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri secured a one-two finish in the second practice session, further bolstering their championship hopes. McLaren currently holds a 21-point lead over Ferrari with 44 points still up for grabs.

Despite the setback, McLaren team principal Andrea Stella remained cautious, acknowledging Ferrari’s strength even with Leclerc’s penalty. “I think even with the penalty, I wouldn’t be surprised if we can see them very rapidly fighting for the front,” Stella commented.

Other notable events from the practice sessions included Lewis Hamilton’s third place in the first session and Nico Hulkenberg’s impressive third in the second. Several teams also utilized their young drivers per regulations, including Ferrari fielding both Charles and his younger brother Arthur Leclerc during the opening session. This year’s race marks Lewis Hamilton’s final race with Mercedes before joining Ferrari, while Carlos Sainz will move to Williams. Williams also faced setbacks with five-place grid penalties for Alex Albon and Franco Colapinto due to mechanical changes.

The race is set to be a dramatic climax to the season, with several teams still battling for championship positions amidst driver changes and unexpected penalties.

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