Guenther Steiner Issues 'Apology' to Lando Norris After Title Win

Lando Norris secured his first Formula 1 World Championship in Abu Dhabi, a victory that prompted former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner to publicly retract his season-long criticism of the McLaren driver. Steiner acknowledged Norris's strategic drive to clinch the title by a mere two-point margin over Max Verstappen.

Why it matters:

Steiner's public shift from critic to congratulator underscores how Norris's championship-winning performance has reshaped perceptions of his mental fortitude and racecraft. For a driver who faced consistent questions about his ability to handle pressure, converting a tight points battle into a title is a definitive answer that solidifies his status among the sport's elite.

The details:

• Norris started the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in second but was overtaken by teammate Oscar Piastri on the opening lap, eventually finishing third while Max Verstappen won the race.
• The third-place finish was sufficient for Norris to secure the drivers' title, edging out Verstappen by just two points in the final standings.
• Steiner, who had been vocal with his criticism of Norris throughout the season, named the new champion the "rock star" of the Abu Dhabi weekend.
• On the Red Flags podcast, Steiner stated Norris "did what he needed to do" and was "very strategic" in his approach, bringing the car home without a mistake under immense pressure.

Between the lines:

Steiner's comments reveal a nuanced view of championship pedigree. While he praised Norris's flawless execution in the finale, he stopped short of anointing him as one of the "great champions," suggesting that status requires multiple titles. His 'apology'—framed as giving credit where it's due—highlights the intense scrutiny top drivers face and how a single result can dramatically alter the narrative surrounding them.

What's next:

The pressure now resets for Lando Norris. As a reigning world champion, expectations will be higher than ever to defend his title and build a legacy. For critics like Steiner, the benchmark has been raised; consistent performance and further championships will be the new criteria for evaluation.