This is what matters in the showdown in Abu Dhabi

It is the day of decision. Max Verstappen on pole position, Lewis Hamilton next to him. The world championship rivals with the same points at the end of a thrilling duel for the world title in Formula 1 side by side - and, as in the classification, with a slight advantage for Verstappen. The balance this year before the 9nd and final race is 8:22 victories. For Hamilton, this means he has to get past Verstappen's Red Bull in his Mercedes. But how?

Even though the seven-time world champion will start the race from second place and therefore on the inside, the first corner is full of dangers. If Hamilton wants to overtake, Verstappen should fully oppose it. Risk of crash! An early exit for both of them – and Verstappen would be world champion. In addition, Hamilton starts on the slightly slower tires. The early attack – very, very unlikely. Will Mercedes have a tactical victory? Mercedes will try to change tires at the optimal time. Hamilton and the Silver Arrows strategists are likely to rely on a one-stopper and switch to even harder rubber as the race progresses. Verstappen will definitely have to change the tires as soon as possible; the faster they are, the less durable they are.

In addition, a tire with a medium compound took some damage when braking in qualifying. That was the only reason why Red Bull then switched to the softer ones. A tactical title decision – not really unlikely. No unnecessary risk – the FIA is everywhere The craziest variant, which he'd better not even think about, but which everyone has been talking about for days: If both are eliminated, the Dutchman will be world champion. A crash like in Monza, for example. But then there is a threat of repercussions, race director Michael Masi has already made that more than clear. Tip: It's better to leave it alone. A picture like this could decide the World Cup. © APA/afp / ANDREJ ISAKOVIC

But it is also clear that Verstappen has the advantage that Hamilton has to attack first. If the Brit takes too big of a risk, he's out. He has to finish at least eighth ahead of Verstappen, then it doesn't matter whether the Dutchman gets the extra point for the fastest lap. There is also tension in the paddock In any case, Verstappen needs a top start to stay at the front - very possible on the soft tires. He can't afford any mistakes. Verstappen's team has to find the ideal time to change tires. He shouldn't get stuck in traffic if Hamilton can continue to switch into the famous Hammertime mode on his more durable tires.

While Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas should fulfill their role as number 2 drivers in the World Championship fight, the other drivers would prefer to stay out of the duel completely. In the votes for the super finale there were clear opinions on this.

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This is what matters in the showdown in Abu Dhabi

What would this season be without a dramatic climax in the last race of the year? Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton go into the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on equal points. Where will the race at the Yas Marina Circuit be decided? On the track, in the gravel bed – or in the pits?

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