Lando Norris Reveals Title-Winning Advice from Hamilton and Vettel

Lando Norris has credited private text messages and conversations with F1 legends Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel for helping him secure his first Formula 1 championship. The McLaren driver, who fought off a late charge from Max Verstappen, revealed that timely advice from champions across different motorsports was pivotal in navigating the intense pressure of the 2025 season finale. Norris stated that this support, particularly when he was struggling with self-doubt, gave him the crucial edge needed to win the title by a mere two points.

Why it matters:

The revelation highlights the immense mental pressure drivers face in a championship fight and the importance of a strong support system. It also shows a unique camaraderie and mentorship among F1's elite, where former champions actively guide the next generation. For Norris, acknowledging this vulnerability and crediting others for his success underscores the psychological battle that often decides a title as much as on-track performance.

The details:

• Norris mentioned receiving support from Lewis Hamilton, Sebastian Vettel, and even former MotoGP champion Casey Stoner, revealing he speaks with Vettel "about things" that many people don't know.
• The support was not just general encouragement. Norris described specific, timely advice, like Stoner's message telling him to "think of this, believe in yourself, do this, do that" when he needed it most.
• The McLaren driver admitted to making several mistakes during the 2025 season and found maintaining mental stamina to be a significant challenge, especially as Verstappen closed in.
• The championship was incredibly tight, with Norris winning by just two points. He directly attributed this razor-thin margin to the "moments of faith" he received from others.

Looking Ahead:

This championship win not only validates Norris's long journey with McLaren but also demonstrates his growth in handling pressure. By openly discussing his struggles and the support he received, he sets a precedent for how future drivers might approach the mental challenges of the sport. As he begins his reign as a world champion, this experience of leaning on a network of legends could prove invaluable in defending his title against a resurgent Red Bull and his own talented teammate, Oscar Piastri.