Hamilton's Verstappen-esque comeback that just fell short in Abu Dhabi

Lewis Hamilton also found himself in a difficult situation in the title battle back in 2016 against Nico Rosberg. The Briton also completed a Max Verstappen-esque comeback during the final races, but it was not enough.

Verstappen and Hamilton were in very different situations midway through their respective seasons. The at-the-time Mercedes driver was fighting against his Mercedes teammate Rosberg, while the Dutchman was far behind the two McLarens, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.

Entering the final moments of the season, both drivers ended up being in more similar situations and had to remain flawless to have a shot at winning the title during the season finale at the Yas Marina Circuit.

Verstappen won the final three races of 2025 - Photo: Red Bull Content Pool

After Hamilton's notorious Malaysia engine failure and a third-place finish in Suzuka, he found himself 33 points behind Rosberg. Verstappen trailed Norris by 49 points after his third-place finish at Interlagos, but later, McLaren's Las Vegas disqualification for a plank wear issue ended up helping him considerably.

Verstappen won the final three Grands Prix of the season in 'Sin City', Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Meanwhile, Hamilton completed a four-race long winning streak, claiming victories in Austin, Mexico, Interlagos and Abu Dhabi. On all occasions, the Briton also claimed pole position, unlike the Dutchman.

In both cases, the drivers in front could hold onto their championship lead in Abu Dhabi. Verstappen ended up missing out on the title by two points, and Hamilton finished five points short.

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