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The British racing driver stated he is deeply satisfied of the approach in which he clinched his inaugural Formula One world championship, emphasizing after a heartfelt victory lap with his McLaren squad and family that he was happy to have succeeded "in his own style".

The champion highlighted that he believes he competed cleanly and without excessive aggression, a philosophy for which he has been scrutinized for not displaying the much-discussed "killer instinct". Norris argues that winning the title demonstrates such an mentality is unnecessary.

The 26-year-old secured the title with a P3 finish at the season finale, edging out Red Bull's Max Verstappen by a mere two points. Verstappen took the checkered flag but could not overcome the lead the McLaren driver held entering the final round.

"That's one of the things that makes me most proud," he commented. "I believe I have just been able to secure it the way I aimed to, which was not by being someone I’m not."

Norris added, "Not trying to be as combative as Max or as forceful as other title-winners might have been historically, I’m happy. I just did it my style – by being a sportsmanlike driver, by trying to be an honest driver."

A Tense Conclusion

The champion admitted that, despite appearances, the final laps were incredibly tense.

"I was composed until the very end, then I began to tremble a little bit," he recalled. "Seeing the team when I crossed the line is a moment that I’ll always remember."

A Remarkable Comeback

The driver's journey to the title involved a stunning comeback from being 34 points behind of then-leader Oscar Piastri in August. A DNF in Zandvoort became a major catalyst.

"I was like: ‘Oh no. I’m in a deep hole against a pretty freaking fast driver, and I’ve got to step it up,’" he revealed. "I had to become more myself due to external factors, bringing in more experts in various fields to fully realize my ability."

Competitors' Responses

Max Verstappen: No Regrets

The reigning champion took only positives from his team's performances, having mounted a comeback from a 104‑point deficit. He believed they had given their all against a McLaren that was the superior package.

"Yes, absolutely, I have no regrets about my season," he said. "The performance has been strong. I’ve struggled with this car at times, but I’ve also excelled in it at times."

Yet, the driver reacted testily when questioned about a controversial incident at the Barcelona race where a time punishment cost him valuable points.

"People overlook all the other events that happened," Verstappen snapped. "The title is won over a full season... I have also had a lot of early Christmas presents come my way."

The Runner-Up's Reflection

A clearly disappointed McLaren teammate, who was in front for much of the campaign, admitted he would emerge stronger the defeat.

"Obviously I would have wished for a different ending," he stated. "But I think this year I’ve learned a hell of a lot about myself as a driver and as a person... In the end there’s a touch of disappointment but I think I can be very proud."