Alex Albon believes Lando Norris has evolved into a complete driver with the speed and composure to secure his maiden Formula 1 title in Abu Dhabi.
Norris has entered the last race 12 points ahead of Max Verstappen, while his McLaren team-mate, Oscar Piastri, lies third, another four points behind.
A top-three finish would seal the championship for the McLaren driver. But his rivals remain close enough to punish any slip at the Yas Marina Circuit.
Albon, who spent years racing Norris in junior categories, sees a driver who has grown mentally under the pressure that has been imposed on him during 2025.
“It’s been really impressive to see how Lando’s handled this the second half of the year,” Albon told media including Motorsport Week.
“I think he’s made almost zero mistakes for the most part and seems to be showing his worth.
“I think he’s been dealing with the pressure well, and to my eyes at least. He seems pretty relaxed right now. I don’t see him that tense.
“He’s a different generation to me. He’s a couple of years younger than I am, so I’ve never seen him in that kind of championship fight in the junior categories, let’s say.
“But yeah, in many ways, I feel like he hasn’t had that happen too many times. Maybe I’m wrong in saying that.
“But he’s either dominated the championship or he’s not had that fight towards the end. But what better way to do it than your first World Championship?”
Norris has shown speed all season, but his final test now awaits. McLaren holds the strongest form heading into Abu Dhabi, but one mistake could swing the title.
READ MORE – Oscar Piastri denies FP1 absence will compromise title-deciding Abu Dhabi F1 weekend
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