Verstappen won the race ahead of Oscar Piastri, but Norris’s drive to the podium at Yas Marina lifted him to 423 points for the season, narrowly ahead of Verstappen’s 421. The result solidifies McLaren first drivers’ championship since 2008 and elevates Norris to the elite group of 35 drivers to win the title.

Norris was emotional as he reflected on the achievement. “I’ve dreamed of this for a long time … a lot goes into a season like this, lot of ups, lot of downs,” he said. “All the boys and girls that I’ve enjoyed so many moments with. … We did it, and I’m so proud of everyone.”

The finale capped a gripping three-way title battle between Norris, Verstappen and Piastri, with the championship in play until the final laps of the season. Under immense pressure, Norris delivered the consistency McLaren needed to complete a landmark campaign.

Verstappen, Norris and Piastri battled it out at the final race of the year. Image: Redbull Content Pool