For several seasons now, it has become a tradition. Before the last race of the year, the drivers gather for a dinner in Abu Dhabi, and this year was no different. Social media documented the event, with Norris taking the opportunity to joke about the tension between Russell and Verstappen.
After what happened in Lusail, the relationship between the two appears to have hit an all-time low. There had been disagreements in the past, but this time the situation seems more serious. The four-time world champion was unhappy with the behavior of the Mercedes driver during the stewards’ meeting, which led to the penalty imposed on the Dutchman.
Russell, for his part, presented a completely different version of events, casting significant doubt on the situation.
What is clear is that there is no love lost between the two, and Norris stepped in to lighten the mood. “Yes, the two you’re thinking of were seated as far apart as possible,” the Briton wrote in the caption of his post.
Four (or actually five) absentees
The photo shows that only sixteen drivers attended the dinner. Fernando Alonso, Nico Hulkenberg, Kevin Magnussen, and Lance Stroll were missing. The absentees increase to five if Jack Doohan is included.
The Australian driver will make his debut this weekend, replacing Ocon at Alpine. Briatore’s goal is to give the future teammate of Pierre Gasly a chance to familiarize himself with the car and team ahead of 2025.
Amid jokes, farewells, and team changes, the “Class of 2024” took a moment to reflect on a season nearing its conclusion. Perhaps it was also an opportunity for a reconciliation between Russell and Verstappen.
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