Lando Norris on the 'extra respect' he hopes comes with his first F1 title
New F1 world champion Lando Norris hopes his first title earns him added respect from rivals, while acknowledging he's still far from the achievements of legends like Hamilton. He also previews an adjustment period for fans as the 2026 regulations introduce a more strategic qualifying approach.
Lando Norris says winning his first Formula 1 world championship has brought a "bizarre" but "amazing" feeling, and he hopes it earns him an extra level of respect from his rivals. The McLaren driver also warned that fans may need time to adjust to the new strategic racing style required by the 2026 regulations.
Why it matters:
Norris's breakthrough title after seven seasons marks a significant shift in the F1 hierarchy, breaking the recent stranglehold of Max Verstappen and Red Bull. His perspective on the achievement and its personal impact offers insight into the mindset of a new champion, while his comments on the 2026 rules highlight an upcoming adjustment period for the entire sport.
The details:
- Norris clinched the 2025 title in a dramatic three-way fight with teammate Oscar Piastri and Verstappen, entering the 2026 season as the reigning champion.
- He expressed humility when comparing his single title to the seven of Lewis Hamilton and three of Max Verstappen, noting the long road ahead to match their legacies.
- The British driver hopes the achievement brings "a little extra level of respect" from his peers, acknowledging the immense effort required to win a championship.
- He mentioned that contemporaries like George Russell and Alex Albon, who entered F1 around the same time, now have "even more hunger" after seeing his success.
What's next:
Norris will begin his title defense under new 2026 technical regulations, which he says will change how drivers approach qualifying. He notes that not going completely flat-out on a quali lap will feel "different" and that it may take time for fans to get used to this new strategic element. As drivers adapt, he believes the racing spectacle will continue to improve.