In a dramatic finale to the 2025 Formula 1 season, Lando Norris was crowned world champion after a nail-biting Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, beating Red Bull's Max Verstappen by just two points. The outcome prompted a sly social media dig from Verstappen's former teammate, Sergio Perez, who was dropped by Red Bull at the end of the previous season.
Thrilling Title Decider at Yas Marina
Verstappen did everything required of him at the Yas Marina Circuit, converting pole position into a race victory. However, it was not enough to secure a record-equalling fifth consecutive drivers' title. Norris needed to finish at least third to clinch the championship and managed to do exactly that, pipping the Dutchman in the final standings.
The championship battle was the closest since 2008, with Norris's McLaren teammate, Oscar Piastri, finishing just 11 points further back in third place overall. The result marks a stunning turnaround for McLaren and denies Verstappen and Red Bull further dominance.
Red Bull's Failed Team Orders Echo 2021
During the race, Red Bull attempted a strategic move reminiscent of the 2021 title decider. With Norris under pressure from Charles Leclerc's Ferrari, the team instructed their other driver, Yuki Tsunoda, to hold up the McLaren after the first pit stops.
This tactic mirrored the famous defence by Sergio Perez on Lewis Hamilton in 2021, which helped Verstappen win his first title. However, Tsunoda's efforts were unsuccessful; Norris overtook him quickly, despite the Japanese driver forcing the McLaren off the track at one point.
Fans and pundits were quick to contrast Tsunoda's feeble defence with Perez's legendary hold-up, highlighting the Mexican driver's value. Perez was axed by Red Bull after a poor 2024 season that reportedly cost the team the constructors' championship.
Perez's 'Cheeky Dig' on Social Media
The comparison did not go unnoticed by Perez himself. On Twitter, a fan posted a meme featuring Marvel villain Thanos saying to Perez, 'perhaps I treated you too harshly'. Perez reposted the image with the simple caption 'Perhaps' and a laughing emoji, clearly referencing his dismissal from the team.
The former McLaren driver, who knows what it means to win for the Woking-based squad, later added his congratulations to the new champion. He tweeted: 'Bravo Lando Norris you and all McLaren congratulations!! Well deserved.'
The 2025 season concludes with a new champion crowned and a pointed reminder from a discarded driver about the pivotal role of a loyal and effective teammate in Formula 1's high-stakes world.
