In a recent interview, Lando Norris disclosed that winning the Formula 1 championship is not his primary focus, despite being deeply involved in the 2024 and 2025 title races. The British driver, competing for McLaren, has been part of high-profile battles with Max Verstappen and now faces a tight contest with his teammate Oscar Piastri.
Norris first entered the championship fight during the 2024 season, pushing Verstappen fiercely from the Miami Grand Prix onward before losing momentum toward the season’s end. In 2025, his main rival has become Piastri, an Australian teammate known for consistent and often nearly flawless performances.
Aseason of Mixed Results and Intensified Rivalries
The competition between Norris and Piastri escalated dramatically, including an on-track collision at the Canadian Grand Prix. Nevertheless, Norris regained ground with victories in Austria, Silverstone, and Hungary before the summer break. As the season approaches its final seven rounds, Norris trails Piastri by 25 points in the championship standings. While Piastri suffered a Did Not Finish (DNF) incident at the most recent race in Baku, Norris was only able to finish seventh, limiting his chance to close the gap.
A New Perspective on Winning in F1
Unlike many drivers known for relentless ambition to claim the title at any cost, Norris has expressed a distinctly measured viewpoint. He told British Vogue,
“I want to enjoy my life and have fun and share it with others,”
Norris explained,
“For me, that’s the priority. Priority number two is to try and win the championship.”
At 25 years of age, Norris has also reflected philosophically on the significance of the title chase, remarking in Hungary,
“In 200 years no one is going to care. We’ll all be dead.”
His approach has earned him praise from former four-time champion Sebastian Vettel, who commended Norris for his openness about mental health and personal emotions, areas often overlooked or criticized within the sport.
Modern Dynamics in F1 Title Contention
The competition between Norris and Piastri also highlights a shift in how rivalries unfold in Formula 1. Both drivers have remained professional and respectful, avoiding media confrontations despite on-track incidents like their Montreal collision or strategic disputes in Monza. This contrasts with the more contentious confrontations seen in past championship fights, signaling a more modern and restrained approach to the intense rivalry.
Championship Outlook and Broader F1 Context
As the 2025 season moves toward its crucial conclusion, the battle between Norris and Piastri will continue to be closely watched, especially with such slim points separating them. Norris’ candid attitude and his focus on enjoying the journey offer a different lens on what success means within the high-pressure world of Formula 1. How this mindset influences his performance in the remaining rounds could add an intriguing element to the title fight.
