British driver Lando Norris clinched his first Formula 1 world championship in 2025, edging out four-time champion Max Verstappen by a mere two points. In recognition of his remarkable achievement, McLaren awarded Norris a substantial bonus of £4.3 million. The finale took place in Abu Dhabi, where Norris secured the title despite finishing third, as his competitors crossed the line ahead of him.
The season was a fierce contest primarily between Norris and his teammate, Oscar Piastri. Piastri led for significant portions of the season until Norris’s victory in Mexico City propelled him to the top of the standings with just four races left. A subsequent win in Brazil consolidated Norris’s lead. However, Verstappen’s outstanding performance in the final three races heightened the pressure on the 26-year-old driver, creating a nail-biting climax to the season.
Following a celebratory night in Abu Dhabi, Norris announced he would change his car number for the upcoming season, opting to use LN1 in place of the number four. This change symbolizes his transition from a promising driver to a champion, placing him among the elite in Formula 1 history.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As the McLaren team shifts its focus to the 2026 season, the challenge of new regulations looms large. Team principal Zak Brown and technical director Andrea Stella will need to ensure that the car remains competitive, given the success they enjoyed throughout the 2025 season. Norris will face increased scrutiny as he seeks to defend his title against not only Verstappen but also a motivated Piastri, who is eager to secure his first championship.
The financial implications of Norris’s victory extend beyond the bonus. According to Forbes, Norris earned over £43 million during the 2025 season, a figure likely to increase as his market value rises following his championship win. McLaren has invested in Norris since 2017, when he joined their young driver programme, and his success is a testament to that commitment.
Norris’s achievement marks a significant milestone in his career, making him the 35th Formula 1 driver to win a world championship. As he prepares for the upcoming season, the pressure to not only defend his title but also to build on his legacy will be paramount. The 2026 season promises to be an exciting chapter in Norris’s career, filled with challenges and opportunities for growth.
