The Controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: A Look Back at the Drama and Fallout
The 2021 Formula 1 season finale in Abu Dhabi will forever be remembered as one of the most controversial events in recent sporting history. The race, which saw Red Bull’s Max Verstappen clinch his maiden drivers’ crown, was marred by a series of events that sparked outrage among fans and teams alike.
Kosport Magazine takes a closer look at the drama and fallout from the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and how it continues to impact the sport today.
The Closing Stages: Masi Under Fire
As the race entered its closing stages, FIA race director Michael Masi came under fire for his handling of the safety car period. Many felt that he had not followed the rules, which ultimately led to a final-lap showdown between title rivals Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton.
Critics argued that Masi had not allowed all lapped cars to unlap themselves and had not left enough of a gap until the restart. This sparked an investigation by the FIA, which concluded that Masi had acted in “good faith” but had made a “human error” in not letting all lapped cars rejoin the back of the field.
Despite the FIA’s findings, Masi was dropped from his post as F1’s race director and later split with the governing body altogether. The incident also prompted a number of changes to FIA procedures in order to avoid a repeat in the future.
The Fallout: Hamilton’s Title Hopes Dashed
The fallout from the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was immense, with many feeling that Hamilton had been robbed of his record eighth drivers’ title. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff was particularly vocal in his criticism of Masi, calling him a “pathological egomaniac” and stating that his actions had tilted the title battle away from Hamilton.
In its investigation, the FIA noted that Masi had taken into account the desires of F1 stakeholders to end races under green-flag conditions and avoid anti-climactic safety car finishes. However, Wolff argued that Hamilton had been “robbed” of a historic title and that the race had left a lasting impact on the history of F1.
The Aftermath: Hamilton’s Contemplation and Reflection
In the wake of the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Hamilton admitted that he had briefly considered retiring from F1. However, he ultimately decided to extend his career in the sport.
Reflecting on the events that followed the race, Hamilton described joining Verstappen in the parc ferme as the “defining moments” of his life. He also revealed that his father, Anthony, was with him during this time and that their relationship had been a source of strength throughout his career.
Despite the controversy and disappointment, Hamilton acknowledged the drama and glory that makes F1 so compelling
