Lando Norris is heading into the 2025 Formula 1 season with renewed self-belief and a clear focus on taking the fight to Max Verstappen for the World Championship. After a rollercoaster 2024 season filled with highs, lows, and intense battles with the reigning four-time champion, Norris is learning to shake off criticism and use the experience to fuel his title ambitions.
Flashpoints of 2024: Norris vs. Verstappen
Throughout 2024, Norris showcased his potential to challenge Verstappen but also endured high-profile clashes with the Red Bull driver at Austria, Austin, and Mexico City. These moments, though often ending in Verstappen’s favor, were pivotal in shaping Norris’s outlook. Reflecting on the season, Norris said the harder moments taught him more than any victory ever could.
“Honestly, it’s probably the harder moments which are the ones you learn the most,” Norris said after securing his fourth win of the year in Abu Dhabi. “My battles with Max and other moments throughout the season have made me stronger rather than shaking my confidence.”
Building Confidence, One Win at a Time
Norris ended the season on a high note, taking his fourth victory in Abu Dhabi and solidifying his position as the second-best driver on the grid. These successes, coupled with McLaren’s resurgence as a dominant force, have instilled newfound confidence in the British driver.
“I think the one thing I’ve learned this year is probably to believe in myself a bit more,” Norris admitted. “As much as it hurts to lose out sometimes, those moments make me even more motivated. I now know I can fight at the front, and I know exactly where I need to improve.”
Facing Criticism Head-On
Throughout 2024, Norris faced his fair share of critics who questioned his aggression and decision-making, particularly in high-stakes scenarios against Verstappen. However, the McLaren driver has embraced the scrutiny and is using it to refine his craft.
“I’m always open to criticism,” he said. “But I know myself better than anyone else. I know where I need to improve and where I’ve already made progress. In the last few races, I feel like I’ve delivered some very strong results.”
The Turning Point: McLaren’s 2024 Evolution
Norris believes McLaren’s slow start in 2024 ultimately cost him a stronger shot at the title. Verstappen and Red Bull hit the ground running, with the Dutchman winning seven of the first ten races. Meanwhile, McLaren took time to find its stride, with Norris’s first win coming in Miami, six races into the season.
“Next year, I want to go into the first race knowing we’re in the fight for the championship,” Norris explained. “This year, we spent the first few races catching up. But once we got the car sorted, we had the strongest package on the grid.”
Eyes on 2025: A Championship Mindset
With McLaren now reigning as Constructors’ Champions, Norris is optimistic about carrying the team’s momentum into 2025. For the first time in his career, he feels ready to lead a title campaign from the opening race.
“Hopefully, 2025 is the year we go into the season saying, ‘This is it.’ The team is ready, and I’m ready. We’ve worked incredibly hard, and now it’s time to fight for the championship.”
The Road Ahead
Norris’s battles with Verstappen in 2024 were a testament to his growth as a driver. As he steps into 2025, armed with experience, confidence, and a top-tier McLaren, Norris is poised to mount his most formidable title challenge yet. Can he dethrone Verstappen and claim his place at the top of Formula 1? The stage is set, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.