F1 news LIVE: Lewis Hamilton makes final decision on appeal as Max Verstappen speaks out
Max Verstappen prevails in world title shoot-out
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Mercedes will have until Thursday evening to formally appeal the FIA’s decision to reject their protests over the final laps of Sunday’s controversial Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The Silver Arrows have been weighing up their options behind closed doors over the last few days following Max Verstappen’s maiden Drivers’ Championship triumph at the Yas Marina circuit.
The Dutchman managed to force his way past Hamilton on the final lap of the race after a late safety car period was ended in order to enable a dramatic one-lap shootout for glory.
FIA race director Michael Masi’s handling of the situation has sparked plenty of criticism and controversy in the days since, with Mercedes understood to be incensed by the manner of Hamilton’s last-gasp defeat.
They quickly protested against the race result but saw their complaints waved away by motorsport’s governing body before following up by giving notice of their intention to appeal.
Mercedes are expected to appear at this evening’s FIA Prize Giving Ceremony in order to accept their eighth successive Constructors’ Championship title.
Verstappen and Red Bull will also be in attendance for the 24-year-old to get his hands on the Drivers’ Championship trophy for the very first time.
Express Sport is on hand to provide live updates throughout the day as the dust continues to settle on Sunday’s historic race.
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Mercedes ‘to ditch appeal’
Mercedes are preparing to abandon their plans to appeal the result of Sunday’s title decider in Abu Dhabi, according to the Daily Mail.
It is said that Lewis Hamilton has instructed the German outfit to stand down in order to avoid a long and drawn-out battle to strip Max Verstappen of his maiden Drivers’ Championship title.
Although the 36-year-old was deeply hurt by the manner of his defeat at the Yas Marina Circuit, he does not believe that it would be in the sport’s best interests to pursue a legal solution.
The Silver Arrows are expected to announce their decision later today ahead of this evening’s deadline.
Good morning
Hello and welcome to Express Sport‘s live coverage of the post-race fallout and best reaction to Sunday’s title-deciding Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The clock is still ticking for Mercedes to submit a fresh appeal to the FIA after declaring their intention to do so following the conclusion of the race at the Yas Marina Circuit.
Meanwhile, the Silver Arrows and Red Bull are both due to appear at this evening’s Prize Giving Ceremony to accept their respective titles, with Max Verstappen set to pick up the Drivers’ Championship trophy for the very first time.
Stay with us for all the latest news and updates from the world of F1 throughout the day.
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