Jenson Button Admits He Was Wrong About Lando Norris's 'Downfall'

Former F1 champion Jenson Button has publicly reversed his past criticism of Lando Norris, admitting he wrongly believed the McLaren driver's emotional openness would be his downfall. Button's comments come in the wake of Norris's 2025 World Championship victory, a title won by staying true to his authentic self rather than conforming to a traditional champion's mold.

Why it matters:

Button's initial skepticism reflected a long-standing belief in Formula 1 that champions must be stoic, aggressive, and mentally unflappable. Norris's triumph challenges this old-school narrative, proving that a different, more emotionally transparent approach can succeed at the highest level. This victory not only solidifies Norris's place in F1 history but also potentially paves the way for a new generation of drivers who feel empowered to race without hiding their personalities.

The details:

• Button's Original Critique: The 2009 World Champion famously stated, "Lando wears his heart on his sleeve, and I thought that would be his downfall," a sentiment shared by many pundits who viewed his emotional reactions as a potential vulnerability under pressure.
• A Change of Heart: Button has since conceded his mistake, praising Norris's "unquestionable talent" and "insane speed," acknowledging that what he once saw as a weakness is, in fact, a core part of the driver's strength.
• Winning His Own Way: Norris highlighted that his championship was special because he achieved it on his own terms. He made a conscious decision not to be "as aggressive as Max or as forceful as other champions might have been in the past," trusting his own method.
• Calm Under Pressure: Despite admitting to struggling with the mindset leading into the decisive Abu Dhabi weekend, Norris revealed he felt "remarkably calm" once in the car, treating it like any other race day—a mindset that ultimately led him to the title.

Looking Ahead:

Norris's 2025 championship is more than just a personal achievement; it's a statement. By winning while being unapologetically himself, he has redefined the psychological blueprint for a modern F1 champion. This success will likely embolden his approach for future title defenses and could influence McLaren's team culture, fostering an environment where authentic expression is seen as a competitive advantage.