Listen & read
Lando Norris secures the Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year Award in a dazzling ceremony in Madrid, highlighting his meteoric rise in Formula 1. This recognition follows his recent inclusion in TIME’s 100 most influential people of 2026, solidifying his status among sports elite.
Norris, 26, clinched his first F1 Drivers’ Championship in a thrilling 2025 season, marked by fierce competition against Max Verstappen and teammate Oscar Piastri. After receiving the prestigious award from Olympic legend Sir Chris Hoy, he expressed gratitude, emphasizing the honor of being recognized alongside past winners like Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg.
Norris’s journey from a promising 17-year-old McLaren recruit to world champion is remarkable. His breakthrough victory at the 2024 Miami Grand Prix set the stage for an unstoppable 2025 season, where he achieved seven wins and led McLaren to consecutive Constructors’ Championships.
Despite his individual triumph, Norris credits his entire team for their support, stating, “Everyone who has been a part of this journey with me also gets to accept this award.” The night also celebrated other sports figures, with Carlos Alcaraz named World Sportsman of the Year and Rory McIlroy earning Comeback of the Year. Norris’s ascent is no longer a mere promise; it’s a definitive statement in the world of F1.
Comments (0)