Lando Norris has officially been crowned Formula 1 World Champion after securing a podium finish at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and several fellow drivers have shared their thoughts and congratulations with McLaren’s number 4. With the demanding Yas Marina race marking the end of the 2025 season, the Drivers’ Championship is finally decided. Here’s how the paddock reacted to Norris’ crowning as world champion.
Norris crowned champion: the reactions
George Russell
George Russell led the praise for his rival, acknowledging the challenge of achieving a feat that few drivers ever experience. He noted that Norris has become the 35th man in history to claim the Formula 1 World Championship, the pinnacle achievement in motorsport.
Russell said after the Abu Dhabi race that he was genuinely happy for Norris. He admitted that when he was younger, he might have envied a rival and countryman who had won, but now he fully appreciates the difficulty of maintaining such a high level in the sport. He highlighted that nobody knows when their chance will come, and that Norris delivered an incredible performance in the second half of the season, earning the championship fairly and deservedly.
Fernando Alonso
Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso praised Norris along with the other top contenders. He noted that all three drivers performed exceptionally well throughout the year and maintained their level under pressure in the final race, finishing among the top three.
Fernando Alonso emphasized that while only one driver can ultimately win the title, this year it was Norris’ turn. He encouraged the young champion to enjoy the moment, acknowledging that winning the championship is the realization of a lifelong dream.
Alex Albon
Williams driver Alex Albon also shared his admiration, highlighting Norris’ ability to express his emotions on the world stage. He praised the McLaren driver for responding to criticism and stepping up under pressure, calling his achievement well-deserved.
Alex Albon added that Norris and McLaren had faced significant bad luck, making his championship victory even more impressive. He concluded that it would certainly be a memorable night for the new world champion.
Carlos Sainz
Carlos Sainz, Norris’ friend, former teammate, and rival, expressed his happiness for the British driver after the Abu Dhabi race. Carlos Sainz focused on Lando Norris’ character, noting how he has endured pressure from social media, the press, and public expectations, without fitting the stereotypical image of a world champion.
Carlos Sainz explained that Lando Norris has always been open about his vulnerabilities, showing that it’s possible to be genuine and still succeed at the highest level. He concluded by emphasizing that the world needs more drivers like Norris who are unafraid to admit their struggles, proving that being “soft” does not prevent someone from becoming a Formula 1 world champion.
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