In 2025, Lando Norris became the first F2 alumni to win a F1 World Championship. The McLaren driver finished as the championship runner-up to George Russell in 2018, having won his first F2 race at the opening round in Bahrain. As F2 celebrates its tenth season, Norris reflected on his time in the championship, the lessons he took into F1, and what the achievement means to him looking back.
Norris on how F2 prepared him for the step up to F1
Norris was clear about the value of his F2 season when it comes to preparing for the demands of F1. He pointed to both the quality of the competition and the familiarity with circuits as key factors in his development as a driver.
“You learn something new in every category. In F2, I raced against incredible drivers—some of whom I’m racing today in F1. Most drivers come from Formula 2, so you’re already competing against some of the best in the world, including future world champions and race winners. That level of pedigree forces you to perform at a high level,” Norris stated.
In 2026, F2 supports F1 at 14 separate Grand Prix weekends across the season. That circuit familiarity is exactly what Norris pointed to as one of the most valuable aspects of the championship.
“You also visit many of the same racetracks that Formula 1 uses, which is very important. F2 provides good track time through races and qualifying, giving you opportunities to learn how to drive under pressure, race, and handle different scenarios. For almost every situation you encounter in Formula 1, you’ve already learned how to deal with it in F2, and that’s crucial.”
Norris’s advice for the next generation of drivers
Asked what advice he would give to drivers currently in F2 who are looking to make the step up to F1, Norris delivered a measured message. He cautioned against trying to rush the process or putting pressure on yourself to impress on the biggest stage.
“Don’t try to do anything overly excessive just to impress people. For some, it might take one year; for others, it might take three. There’s no point rushing or thinking you need to know everything immediately. Don’t feel you have to impress on a big scale in front of F1 teams. Instead, focus on maximising what you can do yourself and learn as much as possible.”
Norris on his favourite F2 moments
Norris was asked to pick out his favourite wins, moments, and battles from his F2 season. He pointed to a strong start to his campaign in Bahrain as one highlight, along with several memorable races at Monza and Abu Dhabi, and the battles he had with drivers who are now his rivals in F1.
“There were a lot of incredible moments in F2. I had fun battles with George at Monza. Starting the season the way we did in Bahrain was pretty good. I also enjoyed many races at Monza and Abu Dhabi. There were a lot of moments I enjoyed racing against George and Alex, among others.”
His fondest off-track memories came from his time with Carlin, the team he spent his F2 season with.
“Off track, I was with Carlin. I did another year with Carlin and worked with many people I’d known for years. We enjoyed a lot of moments together. I learned a great deal about engineering—how to set up a car and analyse data—which is always important.”
Norris on being the first F2 alumni to become F1 world champion
As the first driver to graduate from F2 to become F1 World Champion, Norris acknowledged the significance of the achievement. He admitted it is not something you think about in the moment, but reflected on it with genuine pride.
“It’s very special to look back and hear about these things. You don’t think about it at the time, but having your name written down somewhere for a good reason is something to be proud of. I’m happy I was the first, and the first of what will be many,” Norris concluded.
