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Lando Norris has declared he is immensely proud of the approach in which he won his inaugural Formula One drivers' title, stressing after emotional celebrations with his team and family that he was pleased to have succeeded "in his own style".

The champion highlighted that he believes he competed cleanly and without being overly forceful, a philosophy for which he has been scrutinized for not displaying the often-praised "ruthless edge". Norris argues that winning the championship proves such an mentality is unnecessary.

Norris secured the title with a third-place finish at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, beating his rival from Red Bull by a mere two points. The Dutch driver took the checkered flag but could not overcome the lead Norris held going into the last race.

"That's one of the things that I am most proud of," he commented. "I believe I have just managed to win it the way I wanted to, which was without becoming someone I’m not."

Norris added, "Choosing not to be as combative as Max or as forceful as other title-winners might have been historically, I’m happy. I just won it my way – by being a sportsmanlike driver, by trying to be an respectful driver."

Nerve-Wracking Finale

The champion admitted that, although he seemed calm, the final laps were incredibly tense.

"I felt calm until three corners to go, then I started to shake a little bit," he said. "Seeing the team when I crossed the line is a moment that I’ll always remember."

A Remarkable Comeback

Norris's path to the title involved a remarkable recovery from being far adrift of his teammate in August. A mechanical failure in the Dutch Grand Prix served as a major catalyst.

"I thought: ‘Oh, shoot. I’m in a deep hole against a pretty freaking fast driver, and I’ve got to step it up,’" Norris explained. "I had to become more myself due to external factors, working with more professionals in different areas to unlock more of my potential."

Competitors' Responses

Max Verstappen: No Regrets

Max Verstappen took only positives from his team's performances, having mounted a comeback from a 104‑point deficit. He believed they had done everything possible against a papaya car that was the superior package.

"Yes, absolutely, I have zero regrets about my season," he said. "The performance has been impressive. I’ve struggled with this car at times, but I’ve also excelled in it at times."

Yet, the Dutchman responded tersely when asked about a contentious moment at the Barcelona race where a time punishment cost him valuable points.

"You forget all the other events that happened," Verstappen snapped. "A championship is won over a full season... I have also had a lot of early Christmas presents come my way."

The Runner-Up's Reflection

The visibly dejected Oscar Piastri, who had led for much of the season, reflected he would learn from the experience.

"Naturally I would have wished for a slightly different ending," he stated. "But I think this year I’ve learned a hell of a lot about myself as a driver and as a person... In the end there’s a touch of disappointment but I think I can be extremely pleased."