Doornbos makes a striking prediction based on the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

 According to Robert Doornbos, it is good for Formula 1 that we will finally have a real battle for the world title in 2025, even if that means it will be difficult for Verstappen to win. He also thinks that this year, just like in 2021, we will have an exciting race in Abu Dhabi.

The 2025 Formula 1 season is only a few races in, but one thing is clear: the dominance of Max Verstappen and Red Bull Racing is over. Despite all the setbacks, Verstappen still manages to excel in the RB21. However, it's clear to everyone that the Dutchman is not the favourite for the world title. That role is reserved for Oscar Piastri and his McLaren teammate Lando Norris.

In an exclusive interview with GPblog, Doornbos says he is convinced that the current competition is good for Formula 1. "Years like '22 or '23 you don't want too many of," he said honestly. "Then you can say that it is impressive - because Red Bull did their homework the best, they have the best driver and won 19 of the 21 races," the man from Rotterdam acknowledges. "But of course, that is not attractive for the fan."

"So races like 2021, where the championship title is decided in the last race, that's what you hope for as a promoter and as a fan," he continues, then he reveals a remarkable statistic. "It turns out... Statistically, it seems like every three years, there's an exciting finale in Abu Dhabi. Of course, we had '21, [and also] '18 and '15 were exciting. So, this year should be exciting in Abu Dhabi." Only time will tell if Doornbos's crystal ball is right.