Formula 1 champion of 2025, Lando Norris, achieved another important recognition after his first world title. The McLaren driver was awarded the ‘Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year’, extending his list of achievements after the historic season.
Read more F1: Button does not believe in a career break for Verstappen
This award comes just a few months after the Brit secured last year’s championship at the Abu Dhabi GP, a moment that marked the peak of his career so far. The new achievement reinforces the impact of Norris’s title, who stood out as one of the sport’s biggest names in the past year.
During the ceremony, the driver received the award from former cyclist Chris Hoy and gave a brief thank-you speech. Norris highlighted the importance of the recognition and emphasized the special meaning of receiving the trophy from a figure who inspired him throughout his career.
“Thank you. First of all, to you. An inspiration to me, to many around the world, to many people in the UK. So it’s even more special coming from you. But also to everyone at Laureus, to the committee, to the Academy, it’s a very special award, which means a lot not only to me, but to everyone I’ve worked with,” he stated.
Norris also highlighted the symbolic value of seeing his name alongside athletes he had followed since childhood. The British driver commented that he grew up watching many of the nominees, and described the group as comprising some of the most talented and remarkable sportspeople in the world.
Read more F1: Fans point to Verstappen as ideal name for Ferrari’s future
“I can join an incredible list of nominees, people I watched on TV from a young age, who have become some of the most incredible, talented, and record-breaking individuals in the world. To have my name alongside theirs is very special,” he added.
The Brit also recalled the journey to the title and thanked everyone who was part of the path to the achievement. Norris especially highlighted the support of the team and his family during the journey that culminated in the Formula 1 title in 2025.
“Many people don’t get to achieve their dream, but I was a lucky guy who managed exactly that. So, thank you very much to everyone at McLaren, my mom, my dad, my whole family, and everyone who has been on this journey with me. It was incredible. It’s a beautiful award, I’m going to put it next to the world championship trophy and I’m going to smile every day,” Norris concluded, demonstrating his happiness and pride in his achievements.
Read more Honda and Aston Martin intensify work to contain F1 2026 crisis
