Formula 1 sensation Lando Norris and Chelsea footballer Cole Palmer are among the notable talents celebrated on The Sunday Times Young Power List of 2025. This prestigious list recognizes outstanding young achievers from the UK, all under the age of 30, highlighting their significant contributions and potential for future impact.
The Sunday Times editors selected 30 individuals, showcasing diverse talents across various fields. Each honoree had the opportunity to share their unique stories exclusively for this feature.
Hannah Swerling, The Sunday Times Commissioning Editor, emphasized the depth of talent on this year’s list. “This year’s Young Power List showcases the incredible talent, resilience, and vision of young people across the UK. Their stories are a testament to what can be achieved with passion and purpose, and they remind us that age is no barrier to making a meaningful impact,” she said.
The 2025 list, featuring sports stars such as Lando Norris, reflects the dynamic spirit of young achievers. Norris, hailing from Somerset, has made significant strides in the racing world. At 25, he boasts five Grand Prix wins and a second-place finish at last year’s Drivers’ Championship. Norris has been a pivotal figure since becoming the youngest FIA Formula Three European Champion in 2017, cementing his status as one of Formula One’s hottest talents.
This season, he currently leads the standings with 44 points for McLaren, ahead of renowned competitors like Max Verstappen and George Russell. Norris kick-started the 2025 season with remarkable success, clinching victory at the Australian Open and later securing second place in China, only trailing his teammate Oscar Piastri.
Cole Palmer, a promising young footballer from Manchester, has also joined the ranks of celebrated talent. The Chelsea and England star has seen a stellar career trajectory, marking an impressive debut season that significantly contributed to Chelsea’s current campaign success. Despite a recent dip in form, Palmer’s tally of 14 goals and six assists has proven invaluable.
Former Chelsea captain John Terry lauded Palmer’s skills, commending his advanced gameplay and partnership with striker Nicolas Jackson. “He strolls through games a little bit, but he’s so far ahead of everyone else in terms of the way he sees the game,” Terry remarked on talkSPORT. This endorsement underscores Palmer’s bright future in football.
Beyond sports, the list includes a range of talents shaping the UK’s future. Individuals such as Harry Brook, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, and the Nielsen twins have excelled in cricket, rugby, and athletics, respectively. Each has overcome personal and professional challenges, carving paths of inspiration and showing remarkable dedication in their fields.
Harry Brook, England’s ODI vice-captain, boasts a historic achievement of scoring a triple century over Pakistan last year, the first by an Englishman since 1995, making him a celebrated figure in cricket. Meanwhile, Feyi-Waboso’s rugby career, coupled with his pursuit to become a plastic surgeon, highlights a unique blend of athletic and academic aspirations.
Lina and Laviai Nielsen, athletes facing the challenge of multiple sclerosis, have achieved significant milestones in athletics, demonstrating unparalleled perseverance and dedication. Their journey to the Olympic podium has been marked by significant achievements, bolstering their reputation within the sports community.
As these rising stars continue to gain recognition, their stories provide inspiration and encouragement, highlighting the significant impact young, driven individuals can have on their respective fields. With Norris at the forefront of Formula 1’s future and Palmer rising in football, the 2025 Young Power List stands as a testament to the diverse talents the UK fosters and the promises they hold for the future.
