Lando Norris wins the Formula One World Drivers’ Championship with a title-sealing podium in Abu Dhabi

On 7 December 2025, Lando Norris (McLaren) clinched his first Formula One World Drivers’ Championship by finishing third in the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, securing the title by two points over Max Verstappen. In a championship fight that went down to the final race, Lando Norris arrived in Abu Dhabi with pressure from multiple title contenders. When the chequered flag fell, Norris’ controlled drive to the podium proved enough to secure the crown - delivering McLaren its first Drivers’ Championship in years and marking a defining milestone in Norris’ career. The finale itself underscored how tight the season had become: while the race win went to a rival, Norris’ points buffer and late-season consistency turned a tense night into a championship moment - celebrated by McLaren as a “team title” as much as a personal triumph. Key outcomes - Champion: Lando Norris (McLaren) - Title margin: 2 points - Title clinched: Abu Dhabi season finale (podium finish)