Lando Norris capped off a remarkable 2024 season with a dominant victory at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, leading McLaren to their first Constructors’ Championship in 26 years. The British driver’s stellar performance and unwavering determination left him feeling elated and proud, solidifying his status as one of the brightest stars in Formula 1.
Lando Norris Shines in Abu Dhabi
Starting from pole position, Lando Norris avoided the chaos on the first lap, which saw his teammate Oscar Piastri spun around by 2024 Drivers’ Champion Max Verstappen. Norris maintained his composure, skillfully controlling the race and fending off pressure from Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc.
Norris’s victory, his fourth of the season, ensured McLaren’s return to the top of the Constructors’ Championship for the first time since 1998, when Mika Häkkinen and David Coulthard achieved the feat.
“It feels incredible, not just for myself but for the whole team,” said Norris, reflecting on McLaren’s historic achievement.
Norris Reflects on McLaren’s Journey
Lando Norris has been a part of the McLaren family since joining their young driver program in 2017 and making his F1 debut with the team in 2019. The journey has been filled with ups and downs, but the 24-year-old expressed immense pride in the team’s turnaround.
“The team has done an amazing job this year to come from where we were at the beginning. I’m so proud of everyone – it’s been a lovely journey,” said Norris.
“And to end the season like this is perfect. A huge congrats and big thank you to everyone in McLaren, everyone in papaya, and everyone who supported us this year. For us to win a Constructors’ Championship after 26 years is pretty special.”
Celebrating Success and Looking to the Future
Norris couldn’t hide his excitement as he spoke about celebrating McLaren’s monumental achievement:
“We’re going to celebrate – this is a historic moment for the team. They’re going to want to celebrate, and I want to celebrate with them, so it’s going to be a good night!”
However, Norris’s focus has already shifted to 2025, with ambitions of adding a Drivers’ Championship to his resume. Over team radio during his cool-down lap, Norris confidently declared, “Next year’s going to be my year too.”
Speaking to reporters, Norris added:
“It’s my goal, it’s our goal as a team. We want to win the Constructors’, and we want to win the Drivers’ Championship next year. I made my mistakes this year, but I’ve learned a lot – from Max, from my competitors, and from my own experiences. As much as I’m happy now, I’m excited to get next year going.”
Piastri’s Struggles and McLaren’s Triumph
Oscar Piastri, Norris’s teammate, endured a challenging race after being involved in a first-lap collision with Max Verstappen and later receiving a 10-second penalty for a clash with Williams’ Franco Colapinto. Despite his setbacks, Piastri managed to recover to P10, helping McLaren secure the title by a 14-point margin over Ferrari.
Conclusion
Lando Norris is happy—and for good reason. His impressive performance in Abu Dhabi capped off a season of growth, resilience, and success for McLaren. With the Constructors’ Championship trophy in hand, Norris and McLaren are already looking ahead to 2025, aiming for even greater heights.
For Norris, the ultimate goal is clear: “I’m happy now, but the Drivers’ Championship is next on my list.”
