Norris RETURNS F1 rival’s secret Santa gift due to…read more
In a recent video posted on Formula 1’s official YouTube channel, McLaren driver Lando Norris was seen returning a Secret Santa gift he received from his rival, George Russell. The clip, which showed various F1 drivers exchanging holiday gifts, featured Norris opening a present from Russell that didn’t quite sit well with him. The 2024 season had been a landmark year for Norris, marked by a career-first Grand Prix victory and a series of podium finishes. His impressive performances also played a key role in McLaren’s victory in the Constructors’ Championship, their first title in this category since 1998.
Although Norris fell short in the drivers’ championship race, finishing behind Max Verstappen, the season still represented significant progress for the British driver. He was able to challenge Verstappen at the front of the grid, a learning experience that sets him up as a strong contender for the 2025 season, assuming McLaren can continue to provide him with a competitive car.
However, the lighthearted moment captured in the video showcased a more humorous side of Norris. As part of the annual F1 Secret Santa tradition, the drivers exchange quirky or funny gifts with their fellow competitors. This year, while Norris chose a thoughtful gift for fellow driver Zhou Guanyu — a customized cushion featuring an image of Zhou’s pet cat — Russell took a more playful approach. When Norris opened his present, he found a voucher for padel tennis lessons, a gift that clearly surprised him.
Norris, who is known to enjoy the sport, expressed some confusion over the gift. He joked, “If it’s from Lance or Fernando, I understand because they’re better than me at padel.” The comment was a playful nod to the skills of drivers Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso, both of whom are avid padel players and known to enjoy the sport during downtime at races.
While Norris seemed initially taken aback by the gift, the exchange was in good spirits, reflecting the camaraderie among drivers in the F1 paddock. The playful banter between Norris and Russell highlights the lighter side of the sport, contrasting with the intense competition that defines the drivers’ performances on track. As Norris continues to develop as a driver, his lighthearted interactions with his peers remind fans that even in the competitive world of Formula 1, there’s always room for fun.
