In a stunning twist of fate, George Russell has opened up about his feelings towards Lando Norris’ breathtaking triumph in the 2025 Formula 1 season. In a candid revelation, Russell declared he is not “envious” of his fellow Brit’s remarkable achievement, a sentiment that showcases his evolution in mindset as both drivers have ascended the ranks of the sport.
In a gripping season finale, Norris, against all odds, fended off the electrifying late-season surge of reigning champion Max Verstappen to clinch his first Drivers’ Championship by a mere two points. This victory marks a significant milestone not only for Norris but for McLaren, who have reshaped their narrative as a formidable force in F1, leaving even the once-dominant Mercedes team in their wake.
Reflecting on their shared journey, Russell recalled their fierce rivalry that ignited in the 2018 Formula 2 season, where he edged out Norris to claim the title. Both drivers then made their F1 debuts, with Russell joining Williams and Norris taking the helm at McLaren. Fast forward to today, Russell finds himself on a prestigious Mercedes team that had previously dominated the sport with eight consecutive titles, yet he still finds himself chasing that elusive championship.
Despite the competitive pressure, Russell’s perspective has transformed dramatically. He shared his thoughts with the media, stating, “I’m really happy for him. Maybe when I was a bit younger and not as mature, you’d be envious of a rival and fellow countryman to win. But honestly, the older we get, you recognize how difficult it is to sustain a certain level in this sport.” This maturity reflects the complexity of F1, where the path to success is fraught with challenges.
Norris’ road to glory was anything but smooth. After a disheartening retirement during the Dutch Grand Prix left him trailing his teammate Oscar Piastri by 34 points with just nine races remaining, it seemed his championship dream had been extinguished. However, showcasing his tenacity and skill, Norris clawed back, outscoring Piastri in the subsequent races and positioning himself for an unforgettable championship showdown.
Russell, in a show of camaraderie, praised Norris’ extraordinary comeback, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of F1: “We never know when our opportunity is going to come. I’m sure he wasn’t aware his chance was going to be this year. His second half of the year, especially, he drove really incredibly, so I’m happy for him. He deserved it.”
The narrative around Norris’ championship is not just about personal achievement; it also elevates McLaren’s status, proving that they are back in the conversation among F1’s elite. As the dust settles on this thrilling season, Russell’s supportive stance towards Norris exemplifies a newfound respect in the competitive arena of Formula 1, where rivalries can transform into mutual admiration.
In a sport where emotions run high and stakes are even higher, Russell’s words resonate as a reminder that success is not merely about the trophies, but also about the journey taken to earn them. As both drivers look toward the future, the F1 world watches with bated breath, eager to see how this rivalry will unfold.









