Lando Norris dons new look as F1 world champion – however automotive quantity change should wait
Lando Norris returned to the Abu Dhabi circuit on Tuesday for post-season testing with a raspy voice and a new look just days after being crowned the world champion
Newly-crowned world champion Lando Norris sported a fitting golden helmet as he returned to the circuit less than 48 hours after his Formula 1 title triumph.
The Briton was back at the wheel of his McLaren on Tuesday for the official post-season test in Abu Dhabi. He strolled into the paddock sporting a dark hoodie with ‘Champion’ blazoned across the back. The outfit also featured the ‘LN1’ logo that Norris, 26, will now adopt as his personal brand, having ditched his number four to claim the number one reserved for the championship winner next season.
However, he still had the number four displayed on his McLaren for one last outing yesterday morning as he fulfilled his final obligations for the campaign. There was one striking difference on track, though, as Norris donned a golden version of his typically fluorescent yellow racing helmet to commemorate his accomplishment.
In a video message to supporters, filmed as he wandered through the paddock, Norris’ voice was hoarse following intense celebrations of his title victory. He said: “Hello guys – you thought you saw the last of me, and I thought this was the last of you. But it’s the final test of the year.
“I do apologise for my voice not being all there, but I’ve had a couple of very enjoyable days and nights. But we’re back in the paddock. I’m still number four officially for one final test. I’m excited to be back in the car and to get the season over and done with.”
Norris shared the McLaren car with teammate Oscar Piastri, who he pipped to beat the title on Sunday. Lewis Hamilton also had to postpone his holiday, sharing driving duties with Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc.
However, Max Verstappen, who triumphed in Sunday’s race but fell short of the title by two points, was granted permission to fly home, with new teammate Isack Hadjar taking over for the entire session.
Aston Martin also gave Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll a pass from the test, with reserve drivers Stoffel Vandoorne and Jak Crawford stepping in. British teenager Arvid Lindblad will also get a chance to drive for new team Racing Bulls after his spot on next year’s grid was confirmed last week.
With new car design rules set to be implemented next year, post-season testing took a slightly different turn. Each team is operating a ‘mule’ car – a modified version of their 2025 machines which offers significantly less downforce – to assist Pirelli in testing their tyres for the new regulations.
However, the running was interrupted for more than 15 minutes after Haas reserve Ryo Hirakawa lost control and crashed the back of his car into the barrier at turn one.
