Lando Norris has reached the pinnacle of motorsport by clinching his first Formula One World Championship after finishing third at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, becoming the 11th British driver to secure the prestigious title. While the racing world celebrates, a key figure from his past, John Bishop, who was his housemaster at Millfield School’s Great House, expressed immense pride in witnessing Norris’ remarkable journey.
Born in Bristol and raised in Glastonbury, Norris began karting at the tender age of seven, showing early promise in motorsport. Alongside his older brother Oliver, he attended Millfield School in Somerset for nine years, starting at the prep school as a young child before moving to the senior school at 13. He eventually left in year 10 to fully focus on his burgeoning racing career.
Mr. Bishop recalls Norris as a popular and focused student. “He had talent that was identified early and carefully nurtured,” he said, praising not only Norris’ natural ability but also McLaren’s role in his development over recent years. “I still remember him as the determined boy in the house, and it’s awe-inspiring to see what he’s achieved.”
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Norris’ journey is marked by significant milestones, including winning the Karting World Championships at just 14 and debuting in F1 at 19, making him the youngest British driver in the sport’s history. Despite the intense demands on his time, Bishop highlights Norris’ capacity to manage both his rigorous schoolwork and demanding racing schedule with maturity and focus.
“He was very sociable and polite, with a great sense of humor,” Bishop recalls. “Balancing school with racing was challenging, but he handled it with remarkable maturity and a constant desire to improve.” His habit of self-reflection and attention to fine details set him apart from an early age.
Norris’ success has drawn international congratulations, including a heartfelt message from UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who called the season “unbelievable” and the achievement “so well deserved.”
Looking ahead, Bishop wonders what motivates Norris to continue striving at the highest level. “He always had his feet firmly on the ground and a hunger to be the best. It will be fascinating to see how far he goes from here.”