In the fast-paced world of Formula 1, there are races that thrill, shock, and ultimately become part of sports betting folklore. Among all the heart-racing grand prix events, the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix stands out not just for its dramatic ending, but also for the millions of 22Bet bets placed in the days and hours leading up to the chequered flag.
Whether you’re a motorsport fan or a seasoned bettor, this race rewrote the script of what’s possible in both racing and wagering.
A Race That Gripped the World
The final showdown of the 2021 F1 season wasn’t just about speed—it was about legacy, high stakes, and controversial calls. The battle between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen had been building all season, but no one could have predicted the chaos that unfolded in the closing laps of Abu Dhabi.
Why It Was a Betting Magnet
- Title Decider: Both drivers entered the race tied in championship points—a rare and historic situation.
- Tight Odds: Bookmakers saw near-equal chances for Hamilton and Verstappen, making for volatile odds.
- High Drama: Late-race incidents and rule interpretations changed the odds dramatically even during live betting.
Punter interest reached an all-time high. In fact, some major sportsbooks reported record-breaking volume for a single motorsport event.
How the Drama Unfolded
From the green light to the final seconds, the race was a rollercoaster of betting possibilities.
The Hamilton Lead
For much of the race, Lewis Hamilton held a solid lead. Early bettors on Hamilton felt confident. His odds were shortening with every lap, and live wagers on his win seemed like a safe pick.
The Safety Car Twist
With just a few laps to go, Nicholas Latifi’s crash brought out a safety car, freezing the action and resetting the field. Bookmakers scrambled to adjust odds. Some platforms briefly suspended live bets altogether. Those who had wagered on Verstappen began to hope again.
The Final Lap Controversy
In a shocking twist, race control allowed only some lapped cars to un-lap themselves. Verstappen, on fresher tyres, passed Hamilton on the final lap. The underdog cashed in.
Verstappen’s win sent ripple effects through sportsbooks worldwide.
Betting Markets That Lit Up
Punters weren’t just betting on the outright winner. The variety of betting markets meant many had skin in the game on different outcomes.
Most Popular Bets
- Race Winner: A tight choice between Hamilton and Verstappen
- Fastest Lap: Often overlooked, but highly rewarding
- Safety Car Appearance: A profitable market in chaotic races
- Podium Finishers: Higher odds for unexpected names
High-Risk, High-Reward Bets That Paid Off
- Verstappen to Win After Lap 50
- Winner on Final Lap Pass
- Exact Podium Finish Order
Those who took long odds on late-race events reaped serious rewards—sometimes turning small stakes into thousands.
Final Thoughts: When Betting Meets Motorsport History
Some races are just races. Others become iconic moments, not just for fans, but for the betting community as well. The 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was one such moment—a perfect storm of suspense, skill, and strategic fortune.
Whether you’re betting on the next season or just reflecting on one of Formula 1’s wildest finishes, this race proves that when it comes to sports betting, sometimes the impossible is just one lap away.