F1 Abu Dhabi GP - Start time, how to watch & more

Max Verstappen drew first blood by taking pole for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on the weekend he could become a five-time Formula 1 world champion.

The Red Bull driver was dominant in Q3 at Yas Marina Circuit and took pole by two tenths over title rival and McLaren driver Lando Norris.

But it's not the end of the world for Norris because just a podium finish will suffice to claim a maiden title, while fellow championship contender Oscar Piastri starts third.

So it's perfectly set up for a thrilling title decider with George Russell, who is also looking quick this weekend, joining Piastri on the front row.

Here is how to watch Sunday's race.

When is the F1 Abu Dhabi GP?

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

Photo by: Sam Bagnall / Sutton Images via Getty Images

• Date: Sunday 7 December
• Start time: 1pm GMT/5pm local time

The 2025 F1 championship finale, the Abu Dhabi GP, starts at 1pm GMT and 5pm local time on Sunday 7 December.

How can I watch Formula 1?

Live coverage of F1 in the United Kingdom is only available via Sky Sports, meaning the action can also be streamed on NOW or Sky Go.

Sky Sports F1 is £20 monthly, but customers can also purchase a package that incorporates all Sky Sports channels for £22 per month. Fans can also buy NOW as part of a one-off day membership for £14.99, or a monthly package from £28.

F1 highlights are also available via Channel 4, whose programme goes on air a few hours after the action on a Saturday and Sunday. 

How can I watch the F1 Abu Dhabi GP?

The Abu Dhabi GP can be watched through Sky Sports F1 in the UK. Its coverage starts at 11am GMT ahead of a 1pm race start.

• Channel: Sky Sports F1
• Start time: 11am on Sunday 7 December

Live text commentary of the Abu Dhabi GP is also available via Autosport.

Where can I watch the F1 Abu Dhabi GP highlights?

Pierre Gasly, Alpine

Photo by: Andy Hone/ LAT Images via Getty Images

Highlights of the Abu Dhabi GP are available via Channel 4 with the programme starting at 6pm on Sunday 7 December and lasting for 90 minutes. 

Will the F1 Abu Dhabi GP be on the radio?

BBC Radio 5 Live, the 5 Live Sports Extra stations, the BBC Sounds app and the BBC Sport website have all provided radio coverage of the 2025 F1 campaign.

The Abu Dhabi GP will be covered by BBC Radio 5 Live with build-up starting at 1pm.

Weather forecast for the F1 Abu Dhabi GP

There will be very hot conditions for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as the F1 2025 finale will take place in 30C heat. This is with just a 5% chance of rain and a gentle breeze from the north-east, while taking place shortly after sunset.