From an early age, Lando Norris displayed a natural aptitude for motor racing, a skill that set him apart in the competitive world of motorsport. While talent was crucial, Norris benefited from significant financial support through his father, Adam Norris, a successful pensions manager with an estimated net worth of £200 million as of 2022. This backing ensured he had access to top-tier equipment and extensive track time, advantages that many aspiring drivers lack.
Though Norris’ privileged background gave him a head start, it was his exceptional talent that truly carved his path to Formula 1 success. Born in Bristol and raised in Glastonbury, he transformed his opportunity into achievement, becoming Britain’s newest F1 World Champion.
Many drivers born into wealth have reached F1 but failed to prove their skill. Norris, however, was never just a “pay driver.” He won the F3 championship as a rookie and was runner-up in F2 behind George Russell, demonstrating his raw ability. McLaren recognized his potential, promoting him to Formula 1 shortly after his 19th birthday. Despite McLaren not being a dominant force at the time, Norris made an immediate impact, finishing sixth in just his second race.
READ MORE: ‘She Deserves Every Chance to Keep Fighting’ - Daughter’s Plea as Mother Battles Advanced Cancer
READ MORE: False Alarm: William Shatner Not Spotted at Yeovil Wetherspoons
In his debut season, Norris was outperformed by experienced teammate Carlos Sainz, yet he steadily improved. By 2021, with Sainz’s departure to Ferrari and Daniel Ricciardo stepping in, Norris had established himself as McLaren’s leading driver. That year, he narrowly missed out on his first race victory twice—most heartbreakingly in Russia when a sudden rain shower caused him to slide off track while leading.
His breakthrough win finally arrived in Miami in May 2023. Emotions ran high as Norris declared, “I’ve finally delivered for them,” paying tribute to a team that had placed unwavering faith in him. Now, at 26, he’s secured McLaren’s first drivers’ championship since Lewis Hamilton 17 years ago, outdueling formidable rivals Max Verstappen and teammate Oscar Piastri.
Norris’ journey wasn’t without challenges; he has been candid about his past mental health struggles but remained resilient throughout the season. His triumph places him alongside fellow British F1 champions Damon Hill, Lewis Hamilton, and Jenson Button.
Beyond the racetrack, Norris is a strong contender for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award. The shortlist also includes Rory McIlroy, Luke Littler, Chloe Kelly, Hannah Hampton, and Ellie Kildunne — all outstanding athletes from diverse sports disciplines.
Kelly and Hampton played pivotal roles in England’s dramatic Euro 2025 win, with Kelly scoring the decisive penalty and Hampton earning top goalkeeper honors. Littler, the youngest world darts champion at 17, completed the prestigious PDC Triple Crown in 2025. McIlroy achieved a grand slam of golf majors and played a crucial role in Europe’s Ryder Cup victory. Meanwhile, Kildunne’s stellar performance helped England clinch the Women’s Rugby World Cup title.
The BBC Sports Personality of the Year will be announced at a ceremony in Salford on December 18, with live viewer voting showcasing the nation’s admiration for their sporting heroes.