Lando Norris has declared that his maiden Formula One world championship triumph has ignited a particularly "hungry and giddy" response from rival George Russell, who is now determined to knock him off his perch. The British McLaren driver will carry the coveted number one on his car for the first time as the season commences in Australia next month.
New Season, New Rivalry Intensifies
Norris secured his first title in a dramatic Abu Dhabi finale last season, narrowly edging out Red Bull's Max Verstappen by a mere two points. This victory marked a pinnacle for McLaren, which clinched the constructors' championship for the second consecutive year with several races to spare. However, the landscape is shifting as the new campaign approaches.
Mercedes Emerge as Formidable Challengers
Following significant regulatory changes in Formula One, Mercedes have demonstrated impressive early form in pre-season testing. This development has positioned George Russell as the bookmakers' favourite for the 2026 championship—a status Norris himself held at this stage last year. Analysts suggest that Norris and McLaren, despite their recent dominance, may face a sterner challenge from Russell and the revitalised Mercedes team.
"I spoke to George and Alex the other day because we played padel together," Norris revealed, referring to his contemporaries Alex Albon of Williams and Russell. "We all came into F1 at the same time, and it has created more hunger for them, especially for George because he is the bookies' favourite. He is all a bit giddy at the moment and that is a great thing to see."
Norris Reflects on Championship Mentality
The reigning champion acknowledged the different competitive approaches within the sport, contrasting his own style with that of Verstappen. "It is quite clear I have a different mentality and approach to Max, good or bad," Norris stated. "I am always trying to improve, and I know there are areas that I am not at the level I need to be. When you are fighting these guys, you need to be close to perfection."
Despite his historic achievement, Norris insists his motivation remains undiminished. "I don't feel any different coming into this season. I want to go out and win and that is my baseline feeling. If anything, I enjoyed last year a lot and of course I want to do it again. I have come into this season with the same ambition and motivation as last year which is to try and win it."
He also expressed hope that the title would bring added respect from his peers. "I hope there is that little bit extra level of respect that comes from winning the title because the people who have done it know what it takes. That is cool, an extra bonus and not something I have asked for."
As the Australian Grand Prix looms, the stage is set for a compelling battle between Britain's reigning champion and his revitalised compatriot, with both drivers demonstrating fierce determination to claim the ultimate prize in motorsport.
