Lando Norris is targeting the title in 2025 (Image: Getty)
According to 1997 F1 world champion Jacques Villeneuve, ’s unwillingness to side with over could pave the way for to win his eighth Drivers’ Championship title in 2025.
The Woking-based team stormed to their first Constructors’ Championship title since 1998 last season thanks to six wins from Norris and Piastri. now head into the 2025 campaign as slight favourites ahead of and , with both drivers setting their sights on the Drivers’ Championship crown.
However, Norris and Piastri will face stiff competition, and former champion Villeneuve has his concerns. “The way the [2024] season ended, I would have put the dice a little bit more on Lando and ,” he told Action Network.
“But the issue there will be the internal battle between the two drivers. have not and will not handle that well, and they will eat each other’s points away. So even though they probably should be the champion, they might not be.
“Lando should be the natural one fighting for the championship. But the internal battle and the fact that doesn’t seem to handle this internal rivalry in a very positive way, then it might fall more into Lewi’s hands, seeing how ended up last season.”
Don’t miss…
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Lewis Hamilton is heading into his first season with Ferrari (Image: Getty)
Norris enjoyed team orders in his favour during the latter stages of the 2024 campaign, with Piastri moving aside to let the Brit through twice in Brazil. His team-mate repaid the favour by handing over a sprint race victory at the penultimate round in Qatar.
Despite Villeneuve’s warning, have no plans to implement a clear hierarchy at the start of the 2025 campaign. “[2025] is a refresh, and Oscar has an opportunity to fight for a championship, too,” Norris explained.
More F1… [REPORT]
“A lot of what you guys write about and talk about has been because of the championship fight, the Drivers’ Championship fight, and that’s where a lot of talk and things started. And I earned my right to have some of those privileges. I earned my right by doing a good job through the whole season, to be given that opportunity.
“I don’t go around asking for it. And it’s certainly not how I want to win a championship. I want to go out and give Max a fair fight and do my part, and earn it my way. Sometimes there’s inclusions, which is Oscar helping me on a couple of occasions. Everyone spoke like it was going to be every race.”