Championship on ice: Why Norris must fight to final checkered flag

LANDO Norris’ charge toward a maiden Formula One world championship has been one of the defining stories of the 2025 season, but as the final stretch approaches, one thing has become increasingly clear: there will be no early coronation.

- JEHRAN NAIDOO

Despite his consistent podiums, sprint victories, and moments of sheer brilliance, the McLaren star cannot seal the title ahead of schedule. Every remaining point on the table will matter, and the final three race weekends promise to be a high-pressure test of composure, execution, and raw pace.

For much of the year, Norris appeared to be building an unstoppable rhythm. His early-season win tally, combined with McLaren’s impressive development rate, placed him firmly in control of the championship picture.

But the margins in modern Formula One are razor thin, and the resurgence of key rivals, most notably teammate Oscar Piastri and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, has prevented the kind of runaway advantage that would normally allow a driver to clinch the title with races to spare.