Norris: I can bring a fight to whoever wants to fight for the F1 Title

After a dominant start to 2024 for Max Verstappen and Red Bull, McLaren made rapid progress throughout the season, emerging as a genuine contender for both titles. While Norris ultimately fell short in the Drivers’ Championship—finishing 63 points behind Verstappen—McLaren secured their first Constructors’ title since 1998, edging Ferrari by 14 points.

Reflecting on the highs and lows of the campaign, Norris admitted that missing out on his first world title was a difficult moment but remains proud of his progress.

Norris told the BBC’s F1: Back at Base podcast: “When that realisation kind of sets in of 'it's gone', it's a tough one. This is what I've done since I was a kid, this is all I want to do. So, as soon as that kind of candle is gone and it's over, it hurts.

"It's been a year where, actually, I've been pretty proud of my performance,” the four-time race winner continued. “Proud of performing under the pressure that we've been under, delivering when I have.

"I've made my mistakes and, at the same time, I've learned a lot from those mistakes. So for us to go into next year, going 'we have what it takes, we have a car'... I believe I'm a good enough driver and I've got everything it takes," declared Norris.

Looking ahead to the 2025 F1, Norris believes an increase in self-confidence has been one of his biggest developments, allowing him to enter the new season convinced he can fight for the championship: "I'm excited to go into 2025 knowing I've learned a lot, I've improved a lot and I'm ready to bring the fight to everyone.

"Confidence is something I've struggled with in the past. And probably I've only built enough up throughout this season to go 'I'm confident that I'm a good enough driver to win a championship next year' and I can bring a fight to whoever wants to fight me for it," Norris stated.

With McLaren continuing its upward trajectory and Norris entering 2025 with renewed belief, the Briton is determined to mount a serious F1 title challenge against Verstappen and any other contenders who emerge.

The 2025 Formula 1 season kicks off the season-opening Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park in Melbourne, after pre-season testing at Bahrain International Circuit on 26, 27 and 28 February