Lando Norris became the 2025 FIA Formula One World Drivers’ Champion after finishing third at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix — a result just enough to edge race-winner Max Verstappen by two points in a nail-biting finale. Oscar Piastri completed a McLaren 2–3, taking second in the race and sealing third overall in the standings.
“It feels amazing,” said Norris, celebrating his maiden world title. “I want to congratulate Max and Oscar, my two biggest competitors the whole season. It’s been a pleasure to race against both of them. I’ve learned a lot from both of them as well. It’s been a long year, but we did it. And I’m so proud of everyone.”
At lights out, pole-sitter Verstappen launched cleanly and immediately defended against Norris, forcing the Briton to settle into P2. But later in the opening lap, Piastri seized his chance and overtook his teammate, pushing Norris down to P3 — the exact position Norris needed to seal the championship.
However, the job was far from easy. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc applied relentless pressure in the first stint, forcing Norris to push harder than planned. Ultimately, Leclerc’s tyres faded, giving Norris breathing room.
The McLaren driver made a decisive sole stop for Hards, rejoining in heavy traffic. Norris sliced through the midfield quickly — passing Antonelli, Albon and Stroll — before confronting Yuki Tsunoda. The Japanese driver attempted aggressive defending, even forcing Norris off-track, and was handed a five-second penalty for weaving. Norris still made the overtake and reclaimed P3.
Leclerc pitted for a second time, prompting McLaren to cover with Norris. After briefly duelling, Norris pulled away and began closing on Piastri in the final laps, but McLaren instructed the new championship leader to back off and manage the gap safely.
Up front, Verstappen completed a dominant drive, taking his 71st career win, but with Norris secure in third, the Dutchman’s late-season comeback fell agonisingly short.
With Piastri finishing second to end the season on 410 points, Norris crossed the line in third to finish on 423 points, becoming the 35th World Drivers’ Champion in Formula 1 history — and the first of his career.
