Lando Norris has revealed how speaking to golf superstar Rory McIIroy and other sports stars helped him conquer his Formula 1 demons.

The McLaren driver came out on top of a tense battle with team-mate Oscar Piastri and four-time world champion Max Verstappen to win his maiden F1 world championship in 2025.

But the 26-year-old Briton, who has been incredibly open about his mental health struggles since making his F1 debut in 2019, had to overcome moments of self-doubt and low self-confidence on the way to securing his first world title.

Speaking in an interview with The Guardian after winning the Laureus Breakthrough of the Year award, Norris said advice from McIlroy played a role in his success last season.

Asked if he could learn from other sports, Norris, who is a keen golfer, replied: “Yes. There’re always little things from what you see and what you hear people talking about – especially Rory. He’s always quite open about his struggles and things he’s trying when it’s not working out. It means even more when you know the athletes.

“I’ve spoken to Rory a couple of times. I don’t know some of the others, like Justin [Rose], who I wanted to win even more since he was so close last year. For Rosey to be going strong at 45 is pretty awesome. So there are always things you can learn and, when you speak to them, you get to know even more about their mindset.”

McIlroy claimed his first Masters golf title last year and won the prestigious Green Jacket once again earlier this month at Augusta National.

The 36-year-old Northern Irishman ended an 11-year wait to complete the career Grand Slam and became only the fourth man to win successive Masters titles.

“There are certain people I spoke to last year, when I was struggling,” Norris said of the help he received from fellow athletes.

“Top athletes, some of the best in the world, and I spoke to them about my struggles and what they do in those times. How do they block out the noise and be themselves on the tennis court or golf course, or wherever.”

Norris would not divulge other names but added: “They’re incredible people who achieved a lot in different sports and certainly helped me achieve what I did.

“It was more like the start, that minimal part of the season when things weren’t clicking and I wasn’t very comfortable with the car. It was quick and easily good enough to win races. I just couldn’t figure it out on my own. That’s the way I am – I need help from many different people.

“But you’ve then got to go out and do the job yourself. Last year was very special as there are only 35 world champions from Formula One – ever. For me to be added to that list is pretty incredible.”