Norris’ 2025 Formula 1 World Championship was not the story of a dominant season or an effortless rise to the top. It was the story of a person who repeatedly struggled with technical failures, his own mistakes, an exceptionally competitive teammate, and a four-time world champion who punished every mistake. But through that, Norris’ perseverance and resilience shone through, helping him battle through the different problems that faced him along the way. His eventual triumph

McLaren’s “Papaya Rules,” introduced in 2024, allow Norris and Piastri to race freely as long as they avoid contact. Meant to ensure fairness, the rules have instead fueled tension after collisions in Canada and Singapore. With just 24 points separating them and rumours of favouritism rising, the system meant to empower both drivers may now threaten McLaren’s harmony and the 2025 title fight.

McLaren’s decision to avoid naming a number one driver in 2025 could cost them the championship. While both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri show great promise, the lack of a clear leader might create costly confusion when every point matters in a tight title race.