Verstappen concedes Abu Dhabi Friday "didn't go to plan"

Max Verstappen has conceded Friday at the championship-deciding Abu Dhabi Grand Prix "didn't go to plan" after trailing Lewis Hamilton by six-tenths in FP2.

Verstappen and Hamilton arrived at the Yas Marina Circuit level on points with the Dutchman topping the only standings by virtue of his nine wins to his rival's eight.

In what is essentially a 'winner takes all' season finale, Verstappen struck the first blow by topping first practice but was comfortably outpaced in the second session, finishing fourth and also behind Esteban Ocon and Valtteri Bottas.

"We're still learning and understanding a few things but of course, the short-run didn't go to plan and we were lacking a bit of pace," reflected Verstappen.

"But the long runs were a bit more competitive and of course, that is also important."

Yas Marina has undergone extensive reprofiling since F1 last visited with five corners removed and lap times tumbling as a result by over 10-seconds.

Asked for his thoughts on the changes after a first day of running, Verstappen said: "I think it makes it a bit more fun to drive. In general, the faster corners are more fun.

"Especially, the last sector was always a bit tight and off-camber. It's still off-camber but at least the radius is a bit more round so I do think they are positive [changes]."

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