Lando Norris clinched the 2025 Formula 1 world championship in a thrilling fashion in Abu Dhabi, denying Max Verstappen another title by just two points, setting the stage for a fierce Lando Norris 2026 title defense. Now, with Verstappen motivated by a narrow defeat and encouragement from his peers, Norris is expected to face relentless pressure from the Dutch driver in the upcoming season.
Verstappen’s Comeback Falls Short Against Norris
Max Verstappen staged a remarkable return in the latter half of the 2025 F1 season, quickly erasing a 104-point disadvantage. His form after the summer break was exceptional, as he stood on the podium for nine consecutive races, notching five wins. Despite this sustained push, Verstappen was narrowly edged out in the championship by Norris in Abu Dhabi, leaving him disappointed and eager to respond.
Former F1 driver and dismissed FIA steward Johnny Herbert has directly addressed the dynamic between the reigning champion and the challenger, highlighting Verstappen’s dissatisfaction but also acknowledging the strong relationship the two share. Herbert believes Verstappen will do whatever it takes to reclaim his crown, leaving Norris with no room for complacency.
“Max [Verstappen] will be disappointed that he didn’t win it but sort of happy that Lando [Norris] did achieve it because of the friendship that they do have, But Max will be very much thinking, ‘I’m going to make sure I get that world championship back.’ So, there’s not going to be any resting on your laurels for Lando. Max will be saying enjoy it while you can, because he’s coming again.
Johnny Herbert told NewBettingSites.uk.”
The narrow defeat stings for Verstappen, who missed what could have been a fifth consecutive title win. Nevertheless, the loss has only added fuel to his competitive drive, and with the right machinery from Red Bull, he is set to come back strong in 2026. For Norris, the challenge is clear: maintain peak performance and be prepared for sustained attacks from a highly motivated rival.
Shifting Public Perception for Verstappen
Verstappen’s dominance in previous years, particularly in 2023 when he broke several records and defeated established icons like Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel, attracted plenty of criticism and even drew boos at various circuits. However, the atmosphere has shifted dramatically in the 2025 season. Instead of jeers, Verstappen found unexpected support and encouragement from spectators across the world.
This shift came as Verstappen adopted an underdog status, fighting back from adversity. Fans began to embrace his tenacity and perceived vulnerability, offering him a new wave of appreciation. Verstappen himself admitted that he was taken aback by this change in public sentiment.
“Surprising. Naturally, of course, with an underdog role, people will start to support you a bit more. But I guess maybe they finally start to realise who I am, who I really am.
Max Verstappen said on the Talking Bulls podcast.”
The alteration in fan support has energized Verstappen as he looks ahead to another attempt at the championship. No longer seen simply as an unbeatable force, he has garnered empathy and respect, which could translate into a morale boost during critical moments in the 2026 campaign.
Norris’s Task: Holding Off a Resurgent Rival
Lando Norris’s championship run in 2025 cemented his place among the elite drivers, showcasing his ability to withstand pressure in a closely contested title fight. But as Norris prepares to defend his hard-earned position, he must heed the warning that Verstappen will leave no opportunity wasted in his pursuit to reclaim top honors, especially if Red Bull can deliver a competitive package.
The friendship between Norris and Verstappen adds an extra layer of complexity, as both drivers push one another to excel but are also eager to take the upper hand in what promises to be another dramatic season. With Verstappen’s determination and renewed public backing, the stage is set for an intense championship rivalry throughout 2026.
The 2025 season showed that Max Verstappen, even when facing monumental challenges, remains a formidable championship contender. If Red Bull provides him with a strong car, the Dutch driver has the potential to recapture the kind of dominance seen in earlier seasons, threatening to overtake Norris and rewrite the record books yet again. As anticipation builds, all eyes will be on Lando Norris and Max Verstappen as they prepare for another high-stakes battle atop Formula 1.
