The title-deciding 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix delivered celebrations, tension and controversy in equal measure—but one unexpected flashpoint came from outside the cockpit. Adam Norris, father of newly crowned World Champion Lando Norris, found himself at the centre of backlash after a pointed post-race remark involving Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri.
Moments after Lando crossed the line to finish third and clinch his first Formula One World Championship, Adam Norris was heard making a comment that many fans interpreted as dismissive toward Verstappen and Piastri. Although the exact wording was not officially released, the remark was widely circulated by those in the paddock and broadcast personnel, prompting criticism across social media.
Some fans accused Norris’ father of being disrespectful during what should have been a moment of pure celebration. Others felt the comment unnecessarily reignited tensions that had built throughout the season between Lando, Verstappen and Piastri—three drivers who battled fiercely for the title, exchanged accusations at several races and pushed one another to the limit on track.
Verstappen supporters argued that the remark crossed a line, especially after the Dutchman had mounted a powerful late-season challenge. Piastri’s fans also took issue, noting that McLaren had spent much of the season carefully managing the rivalry between their two drivers yet ended the year with renewed off-track drama.
Within the paddock, reactions were more measured. Team personnel noted that emotions were running high and that family members often speak more freely than drivers bound by post-race protocols. Several insiders suggested the moment reflected the intense pressure surrounding the finale rather than any long-lasting hostility.
Lando Norris himself did not comment on his father’s remark, instead choosing to focus on the magnitude of his achievement—clinching his first Formula One championship after a consistent and composed season. The third-place finish he secured in Abu Dhabi was enough to seal the title, marking a historic milestone for both the driver and the McLaren team.
While the controversy added an unexpected headline to an already dramatic evening, it did little to overshadow the significance of Norris’ triumph. The 2025 season will be remembered for its fierce competition, high-stakes battles and the emotional scenes in Abu Dhabi as Lando finally became World Champion—regardless of what was said in the heat of the moment by those watching from the sidelines.
