After a stellar 2024 season that saw McLaren reclaim the Constructors’ Championship for the first time since 1998, Lando Norris is setting his sights on an even bigger prize—his maiden Drivers’ Championship. The 25-year-old British driver isn’t shying away from his ambition, candidly admitting his “selfish goal” of becoming Formula 1 World Champion this year.
“I Want That Selfish One”: Norris’ Championship Dream
Though McLaren dominated the team standings last season, Norris fell short of overcoming Max Verstappen in the individual standings. Now, he’s laser-focused on changing that narrative.
“As much as I want to win the Constructors every single year, I also want that selfish one, to win the Drivers’ Championship,” Norris revealed in a recent interview.
The disappointment of falling just short in 2024 is fueling his hunger for success in 2025. Reflecting on last season, Norris acknowledged Verstappen’s late surge to clinch the title but vowed to address key areas of improvement to come back stronger.
“I came close-ish last year… This year I need to fix a few things, work on some things and come back stronger,” he said.
McLaren’s Relentless Pursuit of Excellence
While McLaren could have rested on their laurels after a triumphant season, Norris praised the team’s relentless drive to push even harder during the winter break.
“The team have remained very focused,” Norris said.
“It was easy for all of them to get back and just go, ‘we’re good, we’ve done it now, let’s just relax.’ They’ve done the opposite. They’ve worked even harder to try and find new things for this year.”
This tireless effort positions McLaren as one of the favorites for the 2025 campaign, with Woking determined to extend their newfound dominance.
The Battle Ahead: Norris vs. Verstappen, Ferrari, and Beyond
Though McLaren’s success is undeniable, the path to Norris’ dream title won’t be easy. Red Bull Racing, led by Verstappen, remains a formidable force, while Ferrari, with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, is shaping up to be a serious contender in what promises to be a thrilling three-way fight for the championship.
Norris is well aware of the challenge ahead but remains confident in his and McLaren’s ability to deliver. If he can outclass Verstappen on the track and fend off Ferrari’s resurgence, 2025 could finally be the year Norris cements his place among the sport’s elite.
The stage is set for a high-stakes battle in Melbourne, with Norris aiming to turn his “selfish goal” into a reality. Can the young Brit dethrone Verstappen and keep McLaren at the top, or will the competition prove too fierce? The countdown to F1’s most anticipated season begins.
