BREAKNIG NEW’S , Lando Norris Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Sebastian Vettel Ahead of Saudi Grand Prix … READ MORE
Lando Norris Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Sebastian Vettel Ahead of Saudi Grand Prix
As the Formula 1 circus rolls into Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Grand Prix, McLaren driver Lando Norris has taken a moment to reflect on the profound influence of Sebastian Vettel, the four-time world champion who retired from the sport in late 2022. Norris, who shared the grid with Vettel for several seasons, has often spoken of the German’s impact—not just on track, but in shaping the modern role of a Formula 1 driver.
A Legacy Beyond Racing
In a recent interview, Norris emphasized that Vettel’s legacy extends far beyond his racing accolades. “I think probably one of the most important things is, nowadays, it’s not so much about what you do on track, it’s the off-track stuff,” Norris remarked. “That is just as important now, in many ways—the influence we can have on youngsters, on the new audience that we have in Formula 1.”
Vettel was renowned for using his platform to address pressing global issues, from environmental concerns to social justice. His willingness to speak out on topics often considered outside the realm of motorsport set a precedent for future drivers. Norris acknowledged this, stating, “It’s about speaking the truth, speaking about honesty, and standing for your opinions—not just about racing things but also a lot that Seb has done.”
Learning from a Role Model
For Norris, Vettel served as a role model in navigating the responsibilities that come with fame. The British driver, known for his more reserved nature, expressed a desire to emulate Vettel’s courage in addressing societal issues. “I’m maybe a bit more shy than what Seb is and has been in Formula 1, but I’ll learn,” Norris shared. “I just need to learn to voice and just [use] what voice I have, I guess, more importantly.”
Norris also highlighted the importance of mental health awareness, a topic both he and Vettel have openly discussed. Reflecting on his own experiences, Norris noted, “Mental health has been one that I’ve done a lot of, but I can always do more. There’s plenty of other things for me to speak out about, but they’ll come with time, so I thank Seb for all of that.”
The Void Left by Vettel
With Vettel’s departure from the sport, many have speculated about who will fill the void he leaves behind. Norris cautioned against placing undue pressure on younger drivers to replicate Vettel’s activism. “I don’t think anyone in their first five years of Formula 1 is going to fill the boots of a guy who is in their final year of Formula 1,” Norris explained. “The Seb of now is a very different Seb to the Seb of five-10 years ago.”
He further emphasized that each driver should be true to themselves, stating, “Some people want to stay out of it completely and some people want to help. There’s no reason why I wouldn’t want to speak up and say things, it’s just in the world we are living in now, it’s not easy to just say what I feel and give my opinion because there are just so many people that will criticise that opinion.”
A Champion’s Character
Beyond his on-track achievements, Vettel’s character has left an indelible mark on the sport. Norris has often praised Vettel’s integrity and passion. “You can never imagine he would do such a thing. But that’s just life. That’s what happens in the world nowadays. It’s just crazy,” Norris remarked, referring to the occasional misrepresentation of Vettel’s character.
As the Saudi Grand Prix approaches, Norris’s tribute serves as a poignant§ reminder of the enduring impact of Sebastian Vettel—not only as a champion driver but as a champion of causes greater than the sport itself.
