Lando Norris was overwhelmed with emotion as he clinched his first F1 world championship title. The British driver secured third place at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, edging out Max Verstappen by just two points to claim the coveted title.
Norris, the 35th world champion in F1 history, expressed his joy and relief after the race. “Thank you guys… oh my god,” he exclaimed over the team radio. “You made my dreams come true, thank you so much. I love you guys, for everything. You deserve it. I love you mum, I love you dad. Thanks for everything. And now I’m crying!”
McLaren team principal Zak Brown celebrated the victory, praising Norris and his teammate Oscar for their stellar performance. Norris had a 12-point lead over Verstappen before the Abu Dhabi race, following a missed opportunity to secure the championship in Qatar.
Despite facing a stewards’ investigation during the Abu Dhabi race, Norris avoided penalties. Verstappen won the race but fell short in his bid for a fifth title, with Norris maintaining his lead to clinch the championship. Verstappen finished ahead of Oscar Piastri, with Norris securing third place and fending off challenges from Charles Leclerc.
The season finale saw Norris crowned as the F1 world champion, marking a significant milestone in his racing career.