Max Verstappen said he would rather not see the World Championship finale staged in Qatar or Abu Dhabi.
World Championship finale in Qatar and Abu Dhabi? I’d rather not
— Max Verstappen
The comment was published on Speedweek.com, highlighting the driver’s preference against a finale in those locations.
Verstappen’s remark adds a personal perspective to the broader conversation about where the sport’s climax should be held. As a multiple‑time champion, his views often carry weight among fans, teams and organisers. When a leading driver expresses a clear stance, it can spark debate about the logistical, commercial and sporting implications of selecting a particular venue for the final race of the season.
Both Qatar and Abu Dhabi are recognised as prominent hosts for high‑profile motorsport events, and the suggestion of a finale there naturally draws attention. Verstappen’s reluctance does not diminish the prestige of those circuits, but rather reflects his own assessment of where he would prefer the championship to conclude. Such statements can influence the narrative around future calendar planning, especially when they are reported by a dedicated motorsport outlet like Speedweek.
Speedweek’s coverage of the comment underscores the outlet’s role in relaying driver opinions to a global audience. By publishing the exact wording, the site ensures that Verstappen’s sentiment is recorded verbatim, allowing readers to interpret the nuance of his position. The article’s straightforward presentation leaves the focus on the driver’s words without additional speculation.
While the statement itself does not outline specific reasons, it signals that the driver is weighing the merits of different locations for the season‑ending showdown. In a sport where venue selection can affect everything from track characteristics to fan engagement, a champion’s viewpoint is a noteworthy piece of the larger puzzle.