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The British racing driver stated he is immensely proud of the manner in which he won his inaugural Formula One drivers' title, stressing after emotional celebrations with his McLaren squad and family that he was happy to have triumphed "his way".

The champion highlighted that he believes he competed fairly and without excessive aggression, a strategy for which he has faced criticism for not displaying the often-praised "killer instinct". He maintains that securing the title demonstrates such an mentality is not essential.

The 26-year-old secured the title with a P3 finish at the season finale, beating Red Bull's Max Verstappen by a mere two points. Verstappen took the checkered flag but could not overcome the lead Norris held going into the last race.

"This is an aspect that makes me most proud," Norris said. "I believe I have just been able to secure it the way I wanted to, which was without becoming someone I’m not."

He elaborated, "Not trying to be as aggressive as Max or as forceful as other title-winners might have been in the past, I’m happy. I just did it my style – by being a fair driver, by trying to be an respectful driver."

Nerve-Wracking Finale

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

"I was composed until three corners to go, then I started to shake a little bit," he said. "Seeing the team after taking the flag is a memory that I’ll always remember."

A Remarkable Comeback

The driver's journey to the championship involved a stunning comeback from being far adrift of his teammate in August. A mechanical failure in Zandvoort became a major catalyst.

"I thought: ‘Oh, shoot. I’m in a deep hole against a pretty freaking fast driver, and I’ve got to step it up,’" Norris explained. "I got to be more myself due to external factors, working with more professionals in different areas to fully realize my ability."

Rival Reactions

The Red Bull Driver's View

The reigning champion took only positives from his team's season, having fought back from a massive points gap. Verstappen felt they had done everything possible against a McLaren that was the superior package.

"Yeah, I think so, I have no regrets about my season," Verstappen stated. "Our pace has been strong. I’ve struggled with this car at times, but I’ve also excelled in it at times."

Yet, the Dutchman reacted testily when questioned about a controversial incident at the Spanish GP where a time punishment cost him critical points.

"You forget all the other stuff that happened," he retorted. "The title is won over a full season... I have also had a lot of lucky breaks come my way."

Oscar Piastri: Lessons Learned

The visibly dejected Oscar Piastri, who had led for much of the campaign, admitted he would learn from the defeat.

"Naturally I would have wanted a slightly different ending," Piastri said. "But I think this year I’ve learned a hell of a lot about myself behind the wheel and as a person... In the end there’s a little bit of disappointment but I think I can be extremely pleased."