McLaren Racing marks a historic milestone as they celebrate 2025 F1 Drivers’ Championship glory at the McLaren Technology Centre (MTC).
Newly crowned champion Lando Norris returned to the MTC on Thursday, following his Abu Dhabi Grand Prix triumph where he delivered a speech to the team alongside Team Principal Andrea Stella.
Norris received a Champion’s welcome on his first return to the factory on Wednesday. The squad lined up for a guard of honour before gathering on the Boulevard the following day to commemorate McLaren’s first Drivers’ Championship since 2008, a moment also underscored by the display of the MP4-23—Lewis Hamilton’s car when he clinched the title 17 years ago—next to a showcar of the MCL39.
In their remarks to the team, both Andrea Stella and Lando Norris expressed gratitude for the collective effort and perseverance shown throughout the season. Stella highlighted the resilience the squad demonstrated during the tougher spells, while the celebrations concluded with a toast and a video message from McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown, who thanked the team and partners for their support.
Andrea Stella, McLaren Formula 1 Team Principal, said:
“In 2025, we earned both the Constructors’ and Drivers’ World Championships. Congratulations to everyone. True history is built by a united team. I’m deeply grateful to every teammate and to our families for their support along this journey.
“I’m proud not only of what we achieved but how we got there. We did it the McLaren way. The 2025 season will be remembered in Formula 1 as a rare moment when three drivers were in contention at the final race—two of them McLaren drivers—which is a remarkable feat. This was also the year we stopped Verstappen’s dominance as a team effort.
“We’ll always remember the moments when Oscar and then Lando crossed the Abu Dhabi finish line. The full magnitude of our achievement hit me when I returned to the factory and saw the entire team.”
Lando Norris, McLaren Driver, said:
“Standing here as a Drivers’ World Champion is beyond belief. This has been a dream since childhood, watching races on television and wondering what it would feel like to be in this position, with no idea at first what it would demand or what it could mean for everyone, not just for me.
“Most important to me are the people who helped us reach this point. Our families, friends, management, and trainers, but especially the engineers, designers, mechanics, and every member who builds the car. The true joy comes from seeing the team react—that’s what fuels me most. The accomplishment means little without the people who made it possible.
“Racing alongside Oscar over the past three seasons pushed me to become better. He’s been an incredible teammate and a big part of this journey. He kept the fight fierce right until the end.
“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to every member of the team. Each person contributes to our story, and I’ll treasure this moment forever. Here’s to many more.”
But here’s where it gets controversial: the notion of McLaren breaking Verstappen’s dominance is a bold claim that invites debate about whether a single season represents a broader shift in Formula 1 power dynamics. Do you think McLaren’s 2025 performance signals a new era, or was it a high-water mark that will require sustained results to redefine the sport’s balance? Share your thoughts in the comments.
