Lando Norris Credits Mid-Season Psychological Coaching for Breakthrough F1 World Championship

Lando Norris says working with a psychologist during the second half of the 2025 Formula 1 season played a pivotal role in helping him secure his maiden world championship.

The McLaren driver held off a fierce late-season charge from Max Verstappen, ultimately clinching the title by just two points at the end of a grueling 24-race campaign. Norris has long been open about the mental challenges he faces, acknowledging he is more emotionally sensitive than Verstappen, who has dominated much of the modern era. Their title fight stretched across two consecutive seasons, with Norris falling short in 2024 after his confidence and form dipped in the closing rounds.

In 2025, however, Norris reversed the narrative. While chasing down teammate Oscar Piastri in the standings, he also had to withstand relentless pressure from Verstappen, who rediscovered form in his Red Bull and rapidly closed the gap to the championship leaders. Despite the mounting tension, Norris delivered the results he needed including a crucial third place in Abu Dhabi to seal the championship.

Recognizing that mental resilience had been a weak point, Norris sought the help of a psychologist midway through the season. The goal was to improve focus, limit distractions, and manage the high-pressure moments that had previously derailed him.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, Norris emphasized just how important that support became.

“Very,” he said when asked how influential the psychological work had been. “When you look at the end of the season, two points were all I needed. There are so many places I could have gained or lost more points. It’s hard to say, ‘This meeting earned me this many points,’ because it doesn’t work like that. It’s a collection of work. You ask yourself, ‘Will this help me do a better job?’ If the answer is yes, you do it.”

He added that collaborating with specialists across different areas contributed to his improved performance.

“Did it make me perform better? Did it help me get those wins in the second half of the season and put together the run that ultimately won me the championship? Yes. Every small piece adds up and makes a big difference.”

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