Abu Dhabi GP tips: Mercedes to continue track stronghold?
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The 2018 Formula One season reaches its conclusion this weekend, with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Both the drivers’ and constructors’ titles have been wrapped up by Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes respectively, so there’s only price on the line on Sunday.
It’s the end of an era for many, however. It’s Fernando Alonso’s final grand prix, while Kimi Raikkonen’s second stint at Ferrari and Daniel Ricciardo’s five years with Red Bull are also up.
Abu Dhabi GP Winner odds
This race has been dominated by Mercedes since the turbo era began in 2014. The track’s long straights put a premium on top speed.
The German outfit have won this race for the last four years. So it’s no surprise to see Hamilton priced up as 6/4 favourite for victory.
Team-mate Valtteri Bottas is the only driver within Mercedes, Red Bull and Ferrari to not win a race this season. He did win this one last year though, and is 9/2 to end his 2018 rut on Sunday.
But that run could be brought to a halt on Sunday. Ferrari’s power unit is now believed to be the best in the business.
That could give the Scuderia the edge. Sebastian Vettel is 13/8 for a first win in eight races, with Raikkonen 16/1 on his Ferrari farewell.
It could be a difficult weekend for Red Bull. Max Verstappen (11/2) and Daniel Ricciardo and (14/1) are likely to be quick in the twisty final sector, but the sheer length of the two straights on the back of the circuit puts them on the back foot.
Alternative Abu Dhabi GP odds
Alonso has endured another wretched campaign at McLaren. The team were unable to build on early-season promise, and at times only Williams have been slower.
Can the two-time world champion end his career with a points finish? 11/4 says he does.
But given his recent run of non-finishes, there’s 13/8 about Alonso suffering an early end to a fascinating career, and 10/1 that he’s the first man to retire from the race.
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All Odds and Markets correct as of date of publication
