For many, the Briton enters the F1 2025 season as the favourite but standing in his way is the reigning four-time World Champion Max Verstappen. Lando Norris says ‘no excuses’

McLaren F1 star Lando Norris is the bookies' favourite for the drivers' title heading into the 2025 season and the Brit admits there is more pressure than ever on him this year

Lando Norris says he and McLaren “have nothing to hide behind” in 2025 as both are expected to be Formula 1 title contenders from the off this season.

Lando Norris has pledged to get tough and drive with his “elbows out” against Max Verstappen as the two prepare to resume their title rivalry in the new Formula 1 season.

Oscar Piastri was part of an impressive McLaren outfit last season and, despite his team-mate Lando Norris having title ambitions, the Australian believes he can be the world champion in 2025

As Lando Norris spoke about the need to “get his elbows out” against Max Verstappen this year, and not allow the Dutch driver to walk all over him, but at the same time to “play the long game” and “not to take any unnecessary risks”,

Then there is the matter of penalty points. Verstappen currently has eight to his name - accumulate four more and he’ll serve a one-race ban. Worse still, the FIA stewards have clamped down on avoidable contact and issued several 10-second time penalties in Abu Dhabi, some harsh and some warranted.

McLaren driver Lando Norris, runner-up in the 2024 Formula One season, embracing the pressure and the favourites tag ahead of the new season.

Max Verstappen’s dominance in Formula 1 is undeniable, but could 2025 be the year he loses his grip on the championship? Dutch driver Tim Coronel believes Lando Norris is the one to watch, with McLaren’s impressive car and Norris’ new aggressive approach.