I have what it takes to be world champion – Lando Norris

Lando Norris believes he can become world champion next season after his Abu Dhabi Grand Prix victory secured McLaren their first constructors’ championship since 1998.

The 25-year-old’s fourth win of the season meant McLaren held off the charge of Ferrari as team-mate Oscar Piastri finished only 10th after an eventful race for the Australian at the Yas Marina Circuit.

Ferrari pair Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc were second and third to push McLaren all the way but Norris’ lights-to-flag win was enough to secure the title. Lewis Hamilton was fourth on his Mercedes farewell.

Norris was also second in the drivers’ championship, the highest finish of his career, having led the challenge to world champion Max Verstappen for much of the season.

The Dutchman clinched his fourth world title last month following a number of clashes between the pair across the campaign.

Norris said after the race that “next year will be my year” and reiterated his belief that he has what it takes to become a world champion.

“I certainly know that I have got a lot of what it takes,” Norris told Sky Sports.

“There’s no doubt about that and I am confident in saying that. This year I have proved that not everything is where it needs to be.

“But even since those moments I feel like I have improved a lot in the second half of the year.

“I have confidence in myself which is not a common thing. I’m never going to go around screaming that kind of thing.

“I have confidence that I can fight against Max and Charles and all of these other drivers.

“I have what it takes. Yes I need to improve in areas. I am going to work hard over the winter to improve on them. I’ll do that and we’ll fight.”

McLaren came into the season finale with a 21-point lead and