Lando Norris has clinched his first Formula 1 world drivers’ championship, triumphing at the season finale in Abu Dhabi on October 29, 2025. The McLaren driver emerged victorious after a season filled with intense competition, fending off challenges from teammate Oscar Piastri and defending champion Max Verstappen.
The final race saw Norris start in second position, where he was briefly overtaken by Piastri. Nevertheless, he managed to secure a third-place finish, which was sufficient to seal the title, despite Verstappen winning the race. The outcome marked the end of Verstappen’s impressive run of four consecutive championships, a streak that began with his first title in 2021.
Emotional Victory and Historic Significance
Following the race, an emotional Norris expressed his gratitude over the team radio, saying, “Thank you guys. I love you guys, thanks for everything. I love you Mum, I love you Dad. And I’m crying!” His victory not only signifies personal achievement but also restores McLaren’s reputation in the sport, as he becomes the first driver from the team to win the championship since Lewis Hamilton in 2008.
Norris had appeared poised to win the title earlier in the season, achieving consecutive victories in Mexico and Brazil. However, a double disqualification for technical infringement in Las Vegas, followed by a strategic error at the Qatar Grand Prix, led to a dramatic shift in the championship race, forcing the contest to the final round.
Season Overview and Championship Battle
The 26-year-old Norris joined McLaren in 2017 as a junior driver and made his Formula 1 debut in 2019. After five seasons without a victory, he secured his first race win at the Miami Grand Prix last year, following a crucial car upgrade. His journey this year included 19 podium finishes out of 24 races, showing remarkable consistency and skill.
Despite a strong opening at the Australian Grand Prix, where he claimed victory, Norris faced a challenging mid-season. By August, a car failure during the Dutch Grand Prix saw him fall 34 points behind Piastri. Fortunately for Norris, Piastri also encountered difficulties, allowing Norris to regain momentum with pivotal wins.
As the championship race intensified, McLaren’s missteps in Las Vegas and Qatar complicated Norris’ path to the title. Entering the final race, he led the standings with Verstappen trailing by 12 points and Piastri 16 points behind. Ultimately, Norris’ ability to maintain his composure under pressure proved decisive.
Norris now joins the ranks of the elite, becoming the 35th driver in Formula 1 history to win the world championship in its 75-year existence. His achievement reflects not only personal dedication but also the resilience of the McLaren team, setting the stage for an exciting future in the sport.
