Lando Norris was officially crowned the 2025 Formula 1 Drivers` World Champion at the prestigious FIA Awards ceremony held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Just five days after securing his maiden title by finishing third in the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Norris was presented with his coveted trophy on Friday at the governing body`s annual event, recognizing achievements across world motorsport. Norris is the 35th driver in history to claim the F1 world title.
Reflecting on the monumental achievement, Norris described the feeling as “incredible.”
“This is the dream of so many people, so many racing drivers, and I finally got to live it,” said Norris. “Live that one dream that I had when I was a little kid.”
The annual event took place in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, following the conclusion of the FIA`s general assemblies week. Regulations mandate that the top-three finishers in the Drivers` Championship attend the gala.
However, outgoing champion Max Verstappen, who won the final race but finished just two points shy of Norris in the 2025 standings (ranking second), was unable to attend the ceremony in Tashkent due to illness, acting on doctor’s advice.
Despite his absence, Verstappen offered his congratulations via a video message, paying tribute to his McLaren rivals after his four-year reign as world champion concluded.
“A big congratulations to McLaren and especially Lando,” Verstappen said in his message. “You guys had an unbelievable season, and it was really cool to be able to race against you guys until the end. Definitely enjoy it.”
