Lando Norris was unable to hold back the tears in his first interview after winning his first F1 World Championship following a nerve-shredding race in Abu Dhabi
Lando Norris was unable to hold back the tears and said he “looks like a loser” in his first interview after securing first F1 World Championship title.
The 26-year-old Brit finished on the podium in the Abu Dhabi season finale, enough for him to seal the title two points ahead of race winner Max Verstappen, and McLaren team-mate Oscar Piastri, who finished second in the race.
Norris’ emotions were on full display as he thanked his team, family and loved ones for their support throughout the season and his career.
Speaking on the team radio after his success was confirmed, Norris said: “Thank you guys… oh my God.”
“You made my dreams come true, thank you so much. I love you guys, for everything. You deserve it. I love you mum, I love you dad. Thanks for everything. And now I’m crying!”
Norris said in his first post-race interview: “I’ve not cried in a while! I didn’t think I would cry but I did.”
“It’s a long journey. First of all, I want to say a big thanks to my guys, everyone at McLaren, my parents – my mum, my dad – they are the ones who have supported me since the beginning.
“It feels amazing. I now know what Max feels like a little bit! I want to congratulate Max and Oscar, my two biggest competitors the whole season.
“It’s been a pleasure to race against both of them. It’s been an honour, I’ve learned a lot from both. I’ve enjoyed it. It’s been a long year. We did it and I’m so proud for everyone.”
Norris sheepishly said he “looks like a loser” as he was unable to contain his emotions after his historic triumph.
The newly crowned world champion added: “It’s not just this year or the last seven or eight years I’ve been with McLaren, but the last 16 or 17 years of my life trying to chase this dream,” says a tearful Lando Norris.
“Today we all did it, so I’m pretty happy. My best performances this year came when I needed them the most. When I was on the back foot is when I did my best and showed the most of me.
“I managed to get the gap I needed to perform and do what I needed to do today. I’m proud. I’ve got my whole family, my girlfriend, a lot of people here. I would hate to embarrass them on a day like today.
“My mum and dad let me share this dream and today I got to share it with them.”