James Wharton inches closer to F4 UAE title with Yas Marina victory

James Wharton made important ground in his F4 UAE title campaign with victory in the first race of the season finale at Yas Marina.

James Wharton on track in Abu Dhabi. (Formula 4 UAE)

Going into the weekend with a six-point advantage over teammate Tuuka Taponen, it was advantage Wharton as the young Aussie qualified on pole for both race one and three.

Wharton started with his car pointed directly into the path of his rival, with the pair going wheel-to-wheel on the opening lap before the Ferrari Academy Driver whipped back into the lead.

The safety car quickly neutralised the race with three cars spinning out on the opening lap including fellow Aussie Jack Beeton, who was left stranded and retired from the race.

The track action restarted with just over 11 minutes remaining, with Wharton taking a much more decisive lead into the first full lap of hard-fought racing.

James Wharton battles with teammate and rival Tuukka Taponen on the opening lap. (Formula 4 UAE)

Wharton set about pulling away from Taponen, building his lead to two seconds by the chequered flag.

The win gives Wharton a 13-point advantage with just 50 points to be won from the remaining two races, as well as gaining pole position for race two later on Saturday by setting the fastest lap.

Aussies Noah Lisle and Jimmy Piszcyk were 14th and 25th respectively.