While Lando Norris finished behind Max Verstappen in 2024, narrowly missing the title, he is determined to outperform his Dutch rival this season. The 25-year-old Brit is resolute in his goal to defeat Verstappen. Norris is also popular among bookmakers – according to the largest betting sites, he is the most likely to become champion this year. Verstappen, however, claims not to be influenced by such predictions.
Those betting on a fifth world title for Max Verstappen will find that bookmakers have more confidence in a championship for Lando Norris. Even Dutch betting sites consider the Brit as the favourite. Verstappen is seen as the second contender by almost all major providers. During a press moment in London, Norris made it clear that he is not shying away from the role of favourite.
‘No More Excuses’
“After last year, there are no more excuses,” he said during the F1 75 event. “McLaren has shown that it has everything it takes to win titles. And I think Oscar Piastri and I have also demonstrated that we are capable of doing so. We don’t want to get ahead of ourselves, but we are confident that we can start the season in the best possible way – certainly better than in previous years.”
Max Verstappen, who was also present in London, was asked about the bookmakers’ predictions and his position behind Norris. “First of all, I don’t like gambling,” the Red Bull driver responded lightly. “But that’s fine. We just need to focus on ourselves. There’s no reason to look at others. We know we need to work on the car, and that’s what we’re going to do.”
