Ex-Haas boss Guenther Steiner has launched a firm defence of Lando Norris, whom he said silenced his critics with a “bravely fought” Formula 1 title victory.
The Brit overcame a 34-point deficit to team-mate Oscar Piastri after the Dutch Grand Prix in August, his chances of capturing the Drivers’ Championship seemingly gone.
But Norris found his way back into contention with some strong drives, clawing back the Australian’s advantage, ensuring a three-way fight at the end of the season.
And it was the McLaren man who won out, defeating Piastri and Max Verstappen at the final round in Abu Dhabi, the latter by just two points.
Asked if he felt Norris did not deserve to be crowned champion, Steiner told Sport Krone that he proved his detractors wrong, himself included.
“I can’t agree with that. He absolutely deserved the title. Lando fought until the very end,” he said.
“We had already written him off during the season — myself included — but he bravely fought his way back, and that’s why he became world champion.
“He learned his lesson and avoided the mistakes he made at the beginning of the season.”
Norris, now carrying #1 on his McLaren instead of his chosen #4, will defend his title as team-mates with Piastri again, as F1 begins a new regulations cycle in 2026.
READ MORE – Lando Norris handed Helmut Marko praise in Red Bull F1 talks bombshell
Discussion about this post