Britain’s Lando Norris won the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in early December, securing McLaren their first FIA Formula 1 Constructors’ World Championship in 26 years. It was a thrilling conclusion to the longest-ever Formula 1 season, with Norris holding off the Ferrari F1 duo of Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc to clinch the title by a slender 14-point margin. This marks McLaren’s first Constructors’ Championship since 1998.
Norris delivered a flawless performance in the 58-lap season finale, bringing immense relief and joy to the McLaren F1 team and their legion of papaya fans around the world — including those watching from the McLaren Technology Centre in the UK. After the race, Norris praised the team’s efforts while expressing his personal ambition to go one step further in 2025. His commanding drive in Abu Dhabi was a clear statement of his ability to compete at the highest level.
“The team have done an amazing job this year to come from where we were. I’m so proud of everyone,” said Norris. “To end the season like this is perfect, so congrats to everyone in papaya and everyone who supported us this year because it’s been a tough one.
“I know better than anyone what I need to improve on and where I’m not strong enough,” continued the 25-year-old. “And I feel like I’ve already done that quite in a lot in the last three, four, five races. Next year is hopefully where I can go and fight for the F1 drivers’ world championship.”
