Norris says he misses success, even if fame has its flip-side

Lando Norris, the British Formula One world champion, expressed his longing for the thrill of victory despite the challenges of maintaining his public image. Speaking at Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium, on July 17, Norris admitted he missed the sensation of success, even though he now lives the life of a Formula One champion. The McLaren driver secured his long-awaited title last season, ending Max Verstappen’s streak of four consecutive championships. However, since the introduction of new regulations, his victories have become rare. Norris, 26, has not claimed a Grand Prix win since November, marking a 12-race drought without a podium finish. He starts this weekend’s race with a 10-place grid penalty due to modifications to his car’s power electronics unit. Despite these setbacks, Norris remains highly motivated, stating he is committed to performing at his best each time he steps onto the track. “I just simply miss the success,” he said. “I miss standing on a podium, spraying the champagne, holding a trophy.” Norris has managed two podium finishes so far in 2026—second place in Miami and third in Barcelona, but has also faced two retirements and one non-start. He acknowledged that the intense drive for success that accompanied his championship campaign has somewhat faded. “There is that little fire you get when success comes your way and you're fighting for the world championship… that kind of is a little bit dimmer,” he explained. Yet, he emphasized his determination to give his best effort every time he competes. Beyond the track, Norris is grappling with the consequences of his newfound fame. His private life has come under increased scrutiny, with paparazzi photographers frequently tracking his movements in London. Social media platforms and celebrity news sites often highlight aspects of his personal life, which he finds intrusive. While he accepts that this is part of being a Formula One driver, he feels certain boundaries have been overstepped. Norris described an incident where a paparazzi photographer followed him for nearly 40 minutes while he traveled to visit a friend in London. This experience left him feeling violated. “You start to just feel a bit more violated in your life,” he said. “I can't leave my hotel or my house without someone literally trying to see every move I'm doing.” He reiterated his stance against such behavior, calling it unusual and unacceptable. In addition to the pressure of public exposure, Norris has noted a shift in his personal demeanor. He mentioned that he sometimes felt like a loser during the previous season when he adhered strictly to his training regimen and chose to stay home rather than engage in social activities. Now, he acknowledges that his lifestyle has changed, becoming more relaxed and open. Nevertheless, he maintains that the loss of privacy is a significant drawback of his current status. As the 2026 season progresses, Norris continues to navigate the complexities of balancing professional ambition with personal space. His reflections offer insight into the emotional toll of sustained success in high-profile sports, highlighting both the rewards and the sacrifices inherent in such a demanding career.