TIME includes Lando Norris among the 100 most influential people of 2026

Among the greats on and off the track The conquest of the 2025 world title in the last race of the calendar in Abu Dhabi allowed Lando Norris to enter the roll of honor of Formula 1 for the first time, with a success that also contributed to achieving other results, this time non-sporting. The Englishman from McLaren, in fact, was included by the New York magazine TIME among the 100 most influential people of 2026. The only Formula 1 driver currently on the grid to be included in this top 100, which also includes other personalities such as the President of the United States Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV, Norris occupies a place in the “Innovators” section. As with all those included in this special list, there is a story told by a person who knows the man or woman honored by TIME, and who in this case is the name of the American singer Paris Hilton. “I met Lando Norris for the first time at the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Miami and I was immediately won over by his energy – she wrote – obviously he is incredibly talented, but what makes him really special is his kindness, his authenticity and his humility. Despite the pressure of the spotlight, he remains down to earth, which is rare. Seeing him become world champion in 2025 was truly incredible: a well-deserved title and an epochal moment. I also saw him interact with the fans during the races and it’s a really special experience. He takes the time to talk to everyone and you can see that it’s really important to him. He’s a fun, warm and easy-going person. I love that he inspires so many people by showing that you can work hard, reach the top and always stay true to yourself.”