Tears of joy for Norris as Briton wins world title in Abu Dhabi

British driver Lando Norris of McLaren won his maiden F1 driver's world title at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Sunday.

- Rituraj Borkakoty

Lando Norris of McLaren cries on the podium after winning the world title in Abu Dhabi.

(MUHAMMAD SAJJAD / KHALEEJ TIMES)

In a thrilling season finale, Norris did just enough, finishing third to become the 11th British driver to win the world championship.

Dutch driver Max Verstappen won the race in Abu Dhabi, but was unable to prevent his British rival from capturing the title.

Australia's Oscar Piastri, Norris' teammate and the third title contender, finished second under the Yas Marina floodlights.

Having captivated the F1 fans throughout the season, eventually ending four-time world champion Verstappen's hopes of equalling Michael Schumacher's record of five consecutive driver's titles, Norris cried tears of joy after the sky was lit up by fireworks to celebrate the newest world champion.

"Thank you guys, you made a kid's dream come true. I love you guys. I love you mum, I love you dad," Norris said on the McLaren team radio.