Sun Dec 07 14:50:00 UTC 2025: Lando Norris Crowned F1 World Champion, Ending British Drought Since Hamilton’s 2020 Victory
Abu Dhabi, UAE – In a stunning turn of events at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, McLaren’s Lando Norris has clinched his first-ever Formula 1 World Championship title, becoming the first British driver to achieve this feat since Lewis Hamilton in 2020.
While Max Verstappen of Red Bull secured a dominant victory in the race itself, Norris’s third-place finish was enough to secure the points needed to leapfrog Verstappen in the overall standings. Oscar Piastri, Norris’s McLaren teammate, finished second in the race and third in the championship, making it a memorable night for McLaren.
The final championship standings are as follows:
- Lando Norris (GB) McLaren 423pts
- Max Verstappen (Neth) Red Bull 421pts
- Oscar Piastri (Aus) McLaren 410pts
Norris’s journey to the championship was marked by a season of “twists, turns, pain, and drama,” as described by commentators. Despite Verstappen’s eight grand prix wins this season, Norris and Piastri won seven races and were able to secure crucial points needed for a final McLaren victory.
Speaking after the race, an emotional Norris thanked his team, family, and fans, stating, “It’s incredible, surreal…I dreamed of this for a long time. The last 16, 17 years of my life trying to chase this dream…so I’m pretty happy.”
McLaren CEO Zak Brown praised both Norris and Piastri, acknowledging Piastri as “a future world champion,” and highlighting the team’s commitment to allowing their drivers to race freely.
Reactions poured in from the F1 community, with Carlos Sainz, Norris’s former teammate, applauding Norris for remaining true to himself despite the immense pressure. “He’s shown you can be a world champion and show that human side, you can be yourself – you can’t have to be a ‘badass’.”
Norris’s mother, Cisca Wauman, expressed her relief and joy, emphasizing the sacrifices made throughout her son’s racing career.
The victory marks a significant milestone for McLaren, signaling a return to championship-winning form after years of challenges.
First Piper 