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Lando Norris risks unwanted F1 record as disastrous title defence continues

After winning the 2025 Formula 1 championship and forever solidifying his name in the history books, Lando Norris is putting together one of the worst title defences the championship has ever seen.The Briton currently sits sixth in the drivers' standings…

By Alex Harrington · Motorsport

Published: Wednesday, 21 October 2026 at 10:04 PM

Key Things to Know

Lando Norris could become the first reigning champion since 1997 to finish a title defense outside the top five.
Norris currently sits sixth in the Formula 1 drivers' standings on 201 points with six races remaining.
The McLaren driver trails fifth-placed Charles Leclerc by 14 points and fourth-placed Max Verstappen by 20 points.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Lando Norris risks becoming the first reigning Formula 1 world champion since Damon Hill in 1997 to finish his title defense outside the top five. After securing the 2025 championship, the McLaren driver currently sits sixth in the standings with 201 points and six races remaining.

Norris sits 14 points behind fifth-placed Charles Leclerc and 20 behind Max Verstappen in fourth. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella admitted the car struggles on circuits with long straights, while Norris stated the car is not quick enough and remains difficult to drive.

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Lando Norris risks unwanted F1 record as disastrous title defence continues

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