Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1, has revealed that he often encourages World Champion Lando Norris to “keep smiling,” highlighting how the McLaren star stands out as “different from the others” on the F1 grid.
Norris’s mental resilience and upbeat demeanor were central topics throughout his breakthrough championship campaign in 2025. Since his early days as a promising talent and Formula Two vice-champion, Norris has steadily grown into one of the sport’s most popular figures, thanks to his openness and charismatic engagement with fans, especially on social media.
This connection between Norris and his supporters was dramatically felt at the British Grand Prix in Silverstone, where he was celebrated by rows of enthusiastic fans as he took his first home victory. His genuine personality and refreshing approach have cultivated a broad and loyal fan base that transcends traditional F1 audiences.
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Domenicali praised this distinctive quality, saying, “He’s very positive, younger, energetic with his personality, that is different from the others.” He emphasized the importance of Norris keeping that positive energy alive, sharing with Sky Sports News, “I think that he needs to keep one thing, that I always said to him—keep smiling. You need to have positive energy. They are role models for many, and they must remember that they are unique talents.”
Throughout the season, Norris’s attitude attracted both admiration and critique. While some urged him to adopt a more aggressive and overtly upbeat style during interviews, Norris stayed true to his authentic self. His consistency and fairness on-track helped secure McLaren’s first Drivers’ Championship since Lewis Hamilton’s triumph in 2007.
Reflecting on his approach after securing the title, Norris stated, “I believe I won the championship this year my way—by being a fair driver, by trying to be an honest driver. Could I have been more aggressive? Perhaps. But did I need to be? No, because what mattered was performing when it counted.”
He added, “I did what I needed to do—being consistent, responding under pressure, and delivering strong results when it mattered. That’s how I won the World Championship this season, and I’m proud of that.”
Norris’s success story underscores the value of authenticity and positivity in the high-pressure world of Formula 1, inspiring not only fans but also fellow competitors and young aspirants within the sport.