Formula One There were times when I drove at a level others couldn't match, says Lando

LANDO Norris said he performed at a level his rivals could not match this season after he was crowned Formula One world champion for the first time.

- Philip DUNCAN

Formula One world champion Lando Norris celebrates with the McLaren team after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

(David Davies/PA)

Bristol-born Norris celebrated becoming just the 11th driver from Britain to win an F1 title at a glitzy after-party at the W Hotel, which sits on top of the Yas Marina Circuit where only hours earlier he realised his childhood dream.

Videos have already emerged of the 26-year-old toasting his success by singing Queen's 'We are the Champions' and Neil Diamond's 'Sweet Caroline.

Norris was 34 points off the championship pace, but fought back to end Max Verstappen's run of four consecutive world titles.