🔗 Share this article

The British racing driver stated he is immensely proud of the approach in which he clinched his first-ever Formula One world championship, stressing after emotional celebrations with his McLaren squad and family that he was pleased to have triumphed "in his own style".

The champion highlighted that he feels he raced cleanly and without being overly forceful, a philosophy for which he has faced criticism for not displaying the often-praised "killer instinct". Norris argues that securing the championship demonstrates such an approach is unnecessary.

The 26-year-old secured the title with a third-place finish at the season finale, edging out his rival from Red Bull by a narrow margin. Verstappen won the race but could not overcome the 12-point advantage the McLaren driver held entering the last race.

"This is an aspect that makes me most proud," Norris said. "I believe I have just managed to win it the way I wanted to, which was without becoming someone I’m not."

Norris added, "Choosing not to be as combative as Max or as forceful as other title-winners might have been historically, I’m happy. I just won it my way – by being a sportsmanlike driver, by trying to be an honest driver."

Nerve-Wracking Finale

The champion admitted that, although he seemed calm, the closing moments were nerve-jangling.

"I was composed until three corners to go, then I started to shake a little bit," he recalled. "Seeing the team after taking the flag is a moment that I’ll never forget."

A Remarkable Comeback

Norris's path to the championship involved a remarkable recovery from being 34 points behind of his teammate in August. A mechanical failure in Zandvoort became a major catalyst.

"I thought: ‘Oh, shoot. I’m in a deep hole against a seriously quick driver, and I’ve got to step it up,’" he revealed. "I had to become more myself because of external factors, bringing in more experts in different areas to fully realize my ability."

Competitors' Responses

The Red Bull Driver's View

The reigning champion focused on the good from his team's performances, having mounted a comeback from a massive points gap. He believed they had done everything possible against a McLaren that was the superior package.

"Yeah, I think so, I have zero regrets about my season," he said. "Our pace has been strong. I’ve hated this car at times, but I’ve also excelled in it at times."

Yet, the Dutchman responded tersely when questioned about a controversial incident at the Spanish GP where a time punishment lost him critical points.

"People overlook all the other stuff that happened," Verstappen snapped. "A championship is won over a full season... I have also had a lot of early Christmas presents given to me."

The Runner-Up's Reflection

A clearly disappointed McLaren teammate, who had led for much of the campaign, admitted he would learn from the experience.

"Naturally I would have wished for a different ending," he stated. "However I think this year I’ve learned an enormous amount about myself behind the wheel and as a person... Ultimately there’s a touch of disappointment but I think I can be very proud."