Sainz Hopes Norris Stays the Same After Title Win

Carlos Sainz believes Lando Norris proved that a driver can win the Formula 1 World Championship by staying true to himself, not by conforming to a ruthless stereotype. The former McLaren teammate praised Norris's speed and talent, hoping the immense success of his 2025 title win doesn't change his genuine personality.

Why it matters:

Norris's championship victory over Max Verstappen by just two points challenges the long-held notion that F1 champions must be ruthless and cutthroat. His success as a "good guy" offers a new blueprint for future drivers, emphasizing that authenticity and raw speed can coexist at the pinnacle of the sport. This narrative is especially significant given the intense pressure and scrutiny Norris faced throughout the season.

The Details:

• Sainz's Endorsement: Carlos Sainz, who was Norris's first F1 teammate at McLaren, has always been a firm believer in the Brit's talent. He stated Norris is "quicker than what people give him credit for" and has always possessed the speed to be a multiple World Champion.
• The 'Good Guy' Champion: Sainz highlighted that Norris broke the mold by remaining "very true to himself, very honest, very open about his own struggles." He proved that a driver doesn't need to be a "badass" to win, showing that a more open and personable approach can triumph.
• Navigating Pressure: The 2025 season was a grueling battle, with Max Verstappen mounting a strong comeback. Sainz noted that Norris handled the immense "social media pressure" and "journalism pressure" well, keeping his composure to clinch the title.
• A Hope for the Future: Sainz's primary hope is that the championship "doesn't get in his head." He joked about keeping Norris in check on the golf course if he gets too boastful, but genuinely wishes that the title allows him to "relax even more, and now he can enjoy Formula 1 even more."

Looking Ahead:

As Norris enters his reign as World Champion, the focus will be on whether he can maintain the persona that endeared him to fans and earned him the title. His victory has already shifted perceptions about what it takes to succeed in F1, and his future conduct could further influence the sport's culture. If he continues to win while remaining authentic, he could solidify a new, more relatable archetype for a generation of aspiring champions.