Carlos Sainz highlights F1 title factor that favours Lando Norris

Carlos Sainz believes Lando Norris has an advantage in the F1 title showdown due to the finale taking place in Abu Dhabi.

Norris enters the race weekend 12 points clear of Max Verstappen and 16 ahead of team-mate Oscar Piastri.

A podium finish for Norris will be enough to seal a maiden F1 title, regardless of where his rivals finish at the end of Sunday's grand prix.

Norris enters the Abu Dhabi race as the reigning race winner around the Yas Marina Circuit, with Sainz signalling that the Briton has always been strong at the venue.

“I will be following very closely,” Sainz told media including RacingNews365. 

“I think everyone knows how well I get on with Lando, and I wish Lando the best possible outcome in that sense.

“I also have a lot of respect for Max and Oscar, and I wish them the best - but I think Abu Dhabi is a Lando track.”

Sainz spent two years alongside Norris at McLaren during the 2019 and 2020 seasons, adding weight to the Spaniard's appraisal.

Despite Norris' position of advantage in the title fight, Sainz asserted the 26-year-old will need to execute a “perfect weekend” to take home the crown.

“I think it's good for him that the finale is in Abu Dhabi, which is from my experience, being his team-mate here, is one of his best tracks,” Sainz said.

“The win he took last year in front of me still hurts! He dominated last year's race in front of me.

“I know it's a Lando track and it's a McLaren track. He plays with that advantage. 

“Still going into the last weekend, having to finish on the podium is never easy, even if you drive a McLaren.

“He needs to execute a perfect weekend. Given how well he's responded under pressure recently, I think he can do it.”