Lando Norris was honored in Madrid during the Laureus World Sports Awards. The British Formula 1 driver, who won his first world title in 2025, went home with the Breakthrough of the Year Award.
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Norris kept his cool in a nerve-wracking title fight with teammate Oscar Piastri and four-time champion Max Verstappen. This achievement not only earned him the championship title but also widespread recognition far beyond Formula 1. His competition for the Laureus award was not insignificant: darts champion Luke Littler, NBA star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and tennis talent João Fonseca were among the nominees.
“Tonight was a very special evening,” Norris said in a video message during the ceremony. “This is one of the most prestigious awards an athlete can win. I am very honored to be recognized alongside the many great people I competed against.”
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“Winning the world title is something I have dreamed of since a young age,” the reigning world champion continued. “Winning my first in 2025 is therefore very special.” The 26-year-old Brit emphasized that the championship was far from a solo achievement. “Without my team, who were also nominated for the Laureus Team of the Year Award, I wouldn’t be here.”
Norris is the sixth F1 driver to receive the award and the first since Nico Rosberg in 2017. Predecessors include Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button, and Daniel Ricciardo.
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