F1: 5 key takeaways from 2018 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Multiple DNFs at Abu Dhabi make the race sombre and Alonso's prediction

F1 Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi, where Nico had a scary crash

It doesn't help to see retirements in any race, on any track for that matter. Accidents aren't of any picturesque value and do not add to the fun of the sport. Having said that, right at the start of the season finale at the Yas Marina, inside the opening lap itself, the Renault of Nico Hulkenberg and the Haas of Romain Grosjean came to blows at a tight-corner.

The aftermath of the accident was Nico Hulkenberg's retirement from the race, but not before it took nearly fifteen minutes of work by several marshals to get the retiring German on his feet.

The accident was arguably the most dramatic moment of the Grand Prix was quite a nervy sight. Incidentally, no penalties were handed to Grosjean and no ruling was made in relation to either of the cars involved in a scary collision.

Having said that, the retirement of Hulk wasn't the only dramatic exit. Raikkonen would follow soon, in his Ferrari. Piere Gasly and Esteban Ocon also didn't have a great run at the Yas Marina.

Add to that the talk about Alonso and Ocon both being penalized for leaving the track of different occasions and thus, gaining an advantage of nearly 5 seconds.

It didn't help that Marcus Ericsson, driving his last Sauber race wasn't able to finish and had to race-retire.

Interestingly, however, at the conclusion of the qualifying session, Alonso had predicted for a major opening lap collision right at the start and so it happened. Well done, Mr. Clairvoyant!