Newly crowned Formula One World Champion Lando Norris reflected on a campaign where he believes his peak performance was untouchable, following a dramatic title decider in Abu Dhabi.
The McLaren driver secured his maiden championship at the Yas Marina Circuit, bringing an end to Max Verstappen’s four-year reign. The victory makes him the eleventh British driver to claim the sport’s ultimate prize.
The season culminated in a nail-biting finale, with Verstappen winning the race but falling just two points short in the standings. Norris’s triumph marked a remarkable comeback, having once trailed the championship lead by 34 points.
In a post-race reflection, Norris was candid about his self-assessment. “I always hesitate to compare myself to others,” he stated. “But there were times this year where I felt I was operating at a level beyond what others could reach. Did I make errors? Absolutely. Could Max outperform me on his day? Without a doubt. But the idea that anyone is unbeatable is a myth.”
He paid tribute to his rival’s relentless challenge. “Max was phenomenal, especially in the second half. He exploited every opportunity, driving like the champion he is. To prove myself against that benchmark is incredibly satisfying. The debate over who is better is irrelevant to me. My goal was to win this championship for my team and my supporters, and we’ve done that.”
The champion also addressed past comments directed at Lewis Hamilton, expressing regret. “I’ve said things I deeply wish I could take back,” Norris admitted. “I strive to show respect to all my competitors, especially to someone of Lewis’s stature. He is a seven-time champion, the greatest the sport has seen. I’m not in that conversation, and I may never be.”
Norris is scheduled to return to the track shortly for post-season testing, beginning his title defense preparations immediately.