Lando Norris Lifts F1 World Championship Trophy at FIA Gala

Lando Norris has officially been crowned the 2025 Formula 1 World Champion, lifting the prestigious Drivers' Championship trophy for the first time at the FIA Prize Giving Gala in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The McLaren driver, who mathematically secured the title at the season finale in Abu Dhabi, was honored alongside his team, which claimed the Constructors' Championship.

Why it matters:

Norris's coronation marks the end of a dominant era and the arrival of a new champion, breaking a streak of four consecutive titles for Max Verstappen. It represents a monumental achievement for both the driver and McLaren, signaling a full return to the pinnacle of the sport for the historic British team and fulfilling the long-held potential of one of F1's most popular figures.

The details:

• Norris clinched the 2025 title at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix by finishing third, a result that gave him just enough points to secure the championship.
• He finished the season only two points clear of Red Bull's Max Verstappen and 13 points ahead of his McLaren teammate, Oscar Piastri, in one of the closest title fights in recent years.
• The formal trophy presentation at the FIA Gala is the traditional capstone to an F1 season, making Norris's championship official in the sport's record books.
• Norris has already confirmed he will run the coveted number '1' on his car for the 2026 season, replacing his familiar number 4.

The big picture:

This championship is a watershed moment for McLaren. After years of rebuilding, the team has delivered both titles, proving the efficacy of its technical structure and driver lineup. For Norris, it validates years of consistent performance and near-misses, transforming him from a perennial contender into a reigning world champion. The close margin over Verstappen also sets the stage for a compelling rivalry heading into the new regulatory era in 2026.

What's next:

With the 2025 season formally concluded, focus immediately shifts to 2026. Norris will begin his title defense with the number 1 on his car, while McLaren will aim to maintain its technical advantage. All teams are now deep into development for the sweeping new chassis and power unit regulations, making the off-season a critical period that will shape the next cycle of competition.