Photo: Race Pictures.

F1 Today | Russell pledges help to Verstappen against Norris, Alonso limits support to Verstappen

21:13, 06 Dec

byNorberto Mujica

After the enthralling qualifying session for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, GPblog brings you the round up of the best F1 stories of today, 06 December 2025.

Russell offers Verstappen a helping hand to beat Norris

George Russell will start the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix from P4, directly behind the three title contenders. After qualifying, he told GPblog he had extracted the maximum from the Mercedes W16 and said he was never realistically in the fight with the top three.

He then clarified that his radio comment about Verstappen giving him a tow was aimed at Red Bull, noting that Verstappen needs a helping hand if he is to win the title.

The Dutch driver, to maximise his chances, needs to win and for Lando Norris to miss the podium to secure the championship. Russell added that starting P4 could place him “in the mix” to influence the fight and said opportunities may arise depending on the first-lap order.

Alonso doesn't want 'to be on the news' for meddling in the title fight

Fernando Alonso will start the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix from P6, three positions behind the championship contenders Max Verstappen in P1, Lando Norris in P2, and Oscar Piastri in P3.

Alonso then explained that he would monitor the title battle through the many trackside screens at the Yas Marina Circuit, but clarified he did not intend to play a role in the outcome. He stated he hoped to stay clear of the fight while still scoring points and "not be on the news on Monday."

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