F1 NEWS: Lando Norris Shares Heartfelt Tribute to Sebastian Vettel Ahead…read more
F1 NEWS: Lando Norris Shares Heartfelt Tribute to Sebastian Vettel Ahead…read more
Lando Norris has opened up about the personal support he’s received from Sebastian Vettel, paying an emotional tribute to the four-time world champion ahead of this weekend’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. The McLaren driver revealed how Vettel has played a quiet but meaningful role in his life, especially during challenging moments in his racing career.
Coming off a third-place finish at the Bahrain Grand Prix, Norris surprised fans and pundits alike with his unusually downcast post-race demeanor. Despite staying at the top of the drivers’ standings, he was self-critical, describing his race as “messy” and admitting he was “not feeling good” in the car. His honest and emotional assessment drew a wave of reactions from the F1 community some supportive, others questioning his mindset.
One person who stepped forward in strong support of Norris was Sebastian Vettel, who praised the Briton’s vulnerability and openness. Vettel, a vocal advocate for mental well-being in the sport, publicly defended Norris, calling him a “role model” for showing that emotional honesty is a strength, not a weakness.
Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the race in Jeddah, Norris responded to Vettel’s kind words with genuine appreciation.
“I saw what Seb said. Me and Seb talk every now and then, and he texts me always in the times when I need it the most, Norris shared.
“I really love Seb. He’s always helping me, texting me, sending me little notes that I appreciate a lot. Especially from someone like him, I think it definitely means something.”
Norris’ comments reveal the depth of their off-track relationship one built on mutual respect, empathy, and shared experience. Vettel’s support goes beyond the cameras, with private messages offering Norris encouragement during periods of self-doubt or pressure.
Vettel, who has remained active in various causes since his retirement from F1 in 2022, returned to Saudi Arabia this weekend to promote his Race for Women initiative an all-female karting event aimed at empowering women in motorsport. While there, he also spoke to Reuters about the broader evolution of driver mental health awareness and referenced Norris directly.
“I think it’s a positive development because we are normal people. We do have normal problems just like everybody else,”Vettel said.
“Heroism is fine, but it’s also part of heroism to just talk about your problems and your weakness. I think that’s a great development to see and to witness—and, you know, real role models.”
He emphasized that the modern era of Formula 1 no longer demands that drivers portray themselves as emotionless or combative figures, and Norris’ willingness to speak out is part of a much-needed cultural shift in the sport.
Vettel’s words have struck a chord with many, highlighting the importance of mental resilience and authentic self-expression in a high-pressure environment like F1. His mentorship of Norris is a reminder that some of the greatest contributions in racing happen off the track.
As Norris continues to grow, both as a driver and a public figure, his bond with Vettel stands as a powerful example of intergenerational support in Formula 1. With the pressure mounting in a closely contested 2025 season, having a figure like Vettel in his corner may prove invaluableboth for Norris’ performance and his peace of mind.
