Tearful Lando Norris voices pride over 'long journey' to F1 title success

Lando Norris spoke through tears as he hailed the “long journey” he has endured with McLaren en route to becoming the world champion.

Norris entered the Abu Dhabi race with a 12-point lead over Max Verstappen and only had to finish third to ensure he walked away with the title.

Starting from second on the grid, Norris lost position to team-mate Oscar Piastri on the first lap, putting added pressure on his shoulders.

However, Norris navigated the challenges the race presented him, including emerging into traffic after making his pit stop.

After fending off the pressure from behind, Norris crossed the line in third place, which was enough to become the 35th F1 champion.

Norris was in tears as he climbed out of his car and gave his first thoughts as F1's newest world champion.

“I've not cried in a while,” he said. “I didn't think I would cry, but I did. 

“It's a long journey. First of all, I want to say a big thanks to my guys, everyone in McLaren, my parent - they're the ones who have supported me since the beginning. 

“It feels amazing. Now know what Max feels like a little bit. And I want to congratulate Max and Oscar, my two biggest competitors the whole season. 

“It's been a pleasure to race against both of them. It's been an honour. I've learned a lot from both of them as well, I've enjoyed it.

“It's been a long year, but we did it and I'm so proud of everyone. It's been an incredible season.”

Norris has won the championship in his seventh F1 campaign, having made his grand prix debut for the team in 2019.

Having only risen to the top of the F1 pecking order in recent years, Norris voiced his pride in playing a role in helping the team resurge.

“I’ve been with them for nine years,” Norris added. “We’ve been through plenty of crazy, difficult times and plenty of good times.

“For me to feel like I can bring something back to them as their first drivers’ [champion] in many, many years.

“I did my part for the team this year and I’m very proud of myself for that, but I’m even more proud for everyone that I’ve hopefully made cry.”