Verstappen-Russell conflict timeline as Leclerc reveals health scare – RacingNews365 Review

The quickly escalating dispute between George Russell and Max Verstappen has engulfed the paddock at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

With their team principals getting involved to reignite their own previously hostile relationship, RacingNews365 has put together a chronological timeline from the first spark of the feud to present, with each touch point along the way.

READ MORE: The explosive timeline behind the Verstappen-Russell conflict

Leclerc hit with health scare ahead of Abu Dhabi title-decider

Charles Leclerc has revealed he came down with a bout of food poisoning ahead of the F1 title-deciding weekend in Abu Dhabi.

The Ferrari driver was stricken on Thursday evening and woke up on Friday feeling ill as the team prepared for the final race where it must out-score McLaren by 21 points if it wins at Yas Marina or by 22 if it does not in order to secure the title. 

READ MORE: Leclerc hit with health scare ahead of Abu Dhabi title-decider

Marko questions Red Bull turnaround after sarcastic reply

Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has insisted that the team may not be able to repeat its Qatar heroics in Abu Dhabi, following another miserable opening day.

Four-time world champion Max Verstappen could only salvage 17th at the Yas Marina Circuit in second practice, and complained about the RB20’s driveability.

READ MORE: Marko questions Red Bull turnaround after sarcastic reply

Verstappen reveals surprise target after latest Red Bull struggle

Max Verstappen has set relatively low expectations for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix after a difficult first day at the Yas Marina Circuit.

The Dutchman, who is embroiled in off-track drama with George Russell, is aiming for the top six finish having finished FP2 down in P17.

READ MORE: Verstappen reveals surprise target after latest Red Bull struggle

Hamilton fighting to subdue emotions as Mercedes exit looms

Lewis Hamilton has stated he is attempting to keep his emotions in check as his relationship with Mercedes nears its conclusion.

Hamilton ended the second practice session from Abu Dhabi in fifth place, over half a second down on session leader Lando Norris.

READ MORE: Hamilton fighting to subdue emotions as Mercedes exit looms

Ferrari dealt F1 title blow as Leclerc handed grid penalty

Ferrari has taken a considerable hit in its pursuit of a first F1 constructors’ championship since 2008 at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Charles Leclerc has been handed a 10-place grid penalty after the Scuderia had to change the energy store (ES) in the back of his Ferrari.

READ MORE: Ferrari dealt F1 title blow as Leclerc handed grid penalty