Lando Norris has officially become the 2025 Formula 1 World Champion, securing the first title of his racing career after finishing P3 in a high-stakes Abu Dhabi Grand Prix finale at Yas Marina.
The McLaren driver entered the decider with a 12-point lead over Max Verstappen, knowing a podium would guarantee him the championship regardless of his rivals’ results. And under enormous pressure — with Verstappen winning the race and teammate Oscar Piastri finishing second — Norris delivered exactly what he needed.
A historic moment for Norris and McLaren
At 25 years old, Norris has now joined the elite list of British Formula 1 world champions, becoming McLaren’s first drivers’ champion since Lewis Hamilton in 2008.
His season has been defined by consistency, calm execution under pressure, and a major breakthrough in race victories that propelled him into championship contention.
How the finale unfolded
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Verstappen controlled the race from pole, winning the Abu Dhabi GP.
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Piastri briefly challenged, finishing P2.
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Norris fought off intense pressure from Charles Leclerc and George Russell early in the race, holding P3 through pit-stop phases.
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With the championship equation clear — finish P3 or better — Norris executed a flawless defensive drive.
What this means
Lando Norris is now:
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World Champion for the first time
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McLaren’s first champion in 17 years
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The newest addition to F1’s modern-era title winners
After years of near misses, heartbreaks, and relentless improvement, the Briton has finally climbed motorsport’s highest peak — and the celebrations in papaya colours are only just beginning.
