Could Lando Norris be on the cusp of clinching his first-ever Formula 1 World Championship? His stunning victory at the Mexico City Grand Prix has ignited a fiery debate among fans and experts alike. According to Sky Sports F1's Martin Brundle, Norris has shifted into 'overdrive,' showcasing the kind of dominance that could propel him to the title. But here's where it gets controversial: can he truly sustain this momentum against the likes of Max Verstappen and his own teammate, Oscar Piastri? Let's dive in.
Norris' triumph in Mexico wasn't just a win—it was a statement. After reclaiming the championship lead from Piastri for the first time since April, the British driver now heads into the final four races of the season with a razor-thin one-point advantage. And this is the part most people miss: while Verstappen remains a looming threat, just 36 points behind, Norris has finished ahead of Piastri in five consecutive races, proving his consistency under pressure. The Sao Paulo Grand Prix this weekend will be a crucial test of his mettle.
Brundle was effusive in his praise, comparing Norris' performance to the kind we'd expect from legends like Verstappen or Lewis Hamilton. 'It was an outstanding weekend for Lando,' Brundle remarked on The F1 Show. 'That qualifying lap, the perfect start, and his defense into the first corner—it was flawless. This is the kind of overdrive gear champions find when it matters most.'
But let's not forget the setbacks. Norris hadn't won a race since Hungary before the summer break, and his seventh-place finish in Baku after Piastri's retirement raised questions about his ability to capitalize on opportunities. Is Norris truly ready to handle the pressure of a title fight, or will cracks begin to show?
1997 World Champion Jacques Villeneuve believes Norris has turned a corner. 'Baku was a wake-up call,' Villeneuve noted. 'He’s come back stronger, like he was fighting Max last year. When a driver gets into that zone, they’re unbeatable.' Villeneuve also highlighted Norris' self-criticism as a 'super strength,' arguing that his willingness to take responsibility for mistakes—even those not his fault—has fueled his growth. But is this self-criticism a strength or a vulnerability in the high-stakes world of F1?
Norris' journey hasn't been without challenges. Poor starts and costly errors, like his collision with Piastri earlier this season, have dogged his campaign. Yet, Brundle believes Norris is 'completing the full set of cards,' maturing into a driver capable of handling both success and adversity. 'A year ago, I’d have said no,' Brundle admitted. 'But he’s managing disappointment, compartmentalizing setbacks, and finding ways to stay focused.'
As the title race heats up, the question remains: Can Norris maintain this level of performance? With Verstappen always a threat and Piastri breathing down his neck, the final rounds promise to be electrifying. What do you think? Is Norris the real deal, or will the pressure prove too much? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Don't miss the Sao Paulo Grand Prix this weekend, live on Sky Sports F1. Stream every race with NOW—no contract, cancel anytime. Will Norris take another step toward the title, or will the competition strike back? The stage is set for a thrilling finale.
