Lando Norris was overcome with emotion as he clinched his first Formula 1 world championship title. The British driver secured the championship by finishing third at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, edging out Max Verstappen by two points.

Norris, the 35th world champion in F1 history, expressed his gratitude and relief over winning the prestigious title after a period of uncertainty. “Thank you guys… oh my god,” Norris exclaimed over the McLaren team radio at the race’s conclusion. “You made my dreams come true, thank you so much. I love you guys, for everything. You deserve it. I love you mum, I love you dad. Thanks for everything. And now I’m crying!”

McLaren team principal Zak Brown celebrated the victory, stating, “We did it, it wasn’t easy. Lando and Oscar, what a group of great drivers!”

Norris had a 12-point lead over Verstappen heading into the Abu Dhabi race, having missed an earlier chance to secure the championship in Qatar. Despite Verstappen winning the final three races of the season, he couldn’t capture his fifth title.

In Abu Dhabi, Norris faced scrutiny for a move off the track while passing Yuki Tsunoda, Verstappen’s Red Bull teammate. However, Norris escaped punishment, and even though Verstappen won the race, Norris’ third-place finish was enough to secure the championship.

Verstappen finished first in the race, with Oscar Piastri in second place. Verstappen refrained from tactics like slowing down to challenge Norris, who finished ahead of his McLaren teammate, Charles Leclerc, in fourth place.