In a dramatic season finale, Lando Norris has been crowned the 2025 Formula 1 World Champion, clinching his maiden title at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The McLaren driver's triumph was sealed as his rival, Red Bull's Max Verstappen, finished third, handing Norris the championship by a slender two-point margin.
A Cheeky Dig From the Sidelines
The aftermath of the race saw an unexpected social media intervention from former Red Bull driver Sergio Perez. The Mexican, who was dropped by the team at the end of the 2024 season, posted a witty reaction online. He quote-tweeted a meme that superimposed his face onto Marvel villain Thanos, using the character's famous line: "Perhaps I treated you too harshly." Perez simply added the word "Perhaps" alongside a laughing emoji, a clear nod to his past role in aiding Verstappen's own title campaigns.
Perez's pointed comment referenced his crucial support for Verstappen during the intense 2021 championship battle against Lewis Hamilton. On that occasion, Perez's defensive driving held up Hamilton, costing the Mercedes driver valuable time and playing a decisive part in Verstappen's eventual victory.
How the Title Was Won and Lost
Norris entered the Abu Dhabi finale with a 12-point lead over Verstappen, needing at least a podium finish to secure the title. Verstappen started from pole position and had an early opportunity to disrupt the McLarens of Norris and Oscar Piastri, who was 16 points behind his teammate. However, the Dutch driver chose not to aggressively defend, allowing the McLaren duo a relatively clear path ahead of Ferrari's Charles Leclerc.
The race's tense moment came when Norris, after his first pit stop, closed in on Red Bull's Yuki Tsunoda. Norris passed him with ease using DRS. Crucially, Tsunoda opted not to back off in the final sector, a move that could have cost Norris time with Leclerc threatening behind. This moment highlighted the potential absence of a strategic wingman like Perez for Red Bull in the title decider.
Gracious in Defeat, Joyful in Victory
Speaking after the race, a reflective Verstappen described the season as a "massive rollercoaster" filled with tough moments but praised his team for never giving up. He then paid a gracious tribute to the new champion. "Winning your first title is something that I think we all dreamt of when you get into the sport," Verstappen said. "You work for that since you're a little kid... I hope for Lando as well. You know, I saw a lot of his family is here, so it's important to enjoy this a lot."
He also commended McLaren's journey from tough years to championship success, stating their season was "incredible." Meanwhile, Sergio Perez, who is set to return to the F1 grid in 2026 with the new Cadillac team, watched the drama unfold from afar, offering his characteristically sly take on the outcome that denied his former teammate.
