Verstappen 'Proud' of Comeback, Not Disappointed After Losing Title to Norris

Max Verstappen expressed immense pride in a stunning comeback effort, stating he was "definitely not disappointed" despite losing the 2025 Formula 1 World Championship to Lando Norris by a mere two points. The Dutchman won the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix from pole, but Norris's podium finish secured the title for McLaren, ending Verstappen's four-year reign.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's gracious response and focus on the comeback highlight a season-long narrative of resilience. After being 104 points adrift mid-season, his and Red Bull's fightback to take the title battle to the final race is one of the most dramatic in recent F1 history, showcasing the intense competition at the front of the grid.

The details:

The 2025 championship was a three-way fight between Verstappen, Norris, and Oscar Piastri until the final round. Verstappen's victory in Abu Dhabi was his eighth of the season, matching the combined win tally of the two McLaren drivers. His post-race team radio message underscored a season defined by perseverance:

• "Congrats, guys. The way we fought back in the second half of the season, we can be really, really proud of that."
• "So, don't be too disappointed. I'm definitely not disappointed. I'm really proud of everyone for not giving up."

The big picture:

This season marks a significant shift in the competitive order. McLaren's constructor and driver championships break Red Bull and Verstappen's dominance, which had lasted since 2021. Verstappen's ability to claw back a massive points deficit demonstrates that, even in a season where his car was not always the fastest, his and the team's performance under pressure remained elite.

What's next:

The 2025 season sets the stage for an epic 2026 rivalry. Verstappen and Red Bull will be determined to reclaim their crown, while McLaren will aim to defend theirs. The narrow margin of victory ensures both teams will enter the off-season and the new regulatory era in 2026 with extra motivation, promising another fiercely contested championship battle.