Lando Norris wins the prestigious Lorenzo Bandini Trophy named after the late Ferrari legend

Lando Norris has had the greatest season of his career in 2023.

Lando Norris wins the prestigious Lorenzo Bandini Trophy named after the late Ferrari legend

Lando Norris (Via IMAGO)

Lando Norris clinched the prestigious Bandini Trophy, a one-time honor named after Ferrari legend Lorenzo Bandini. The thirtieth edition of the ceremony celebrated Norris as a motorsport superstar, emphasizing not just his racing prowess but also the immense fan following and affection showered upon him.

After a tumultuous start to the 2023 season, Norris and McLaren orchestrated a remarkable turnaround. The MCL60’s performance soared, with Norris securing a career-best seven podium finishes. In a captivating display of skill and determination, he carved his place among motorsport luminaries, setting the stage for the Bandini Trophy accolade.

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“An incredible welcome” awaited Norris in Faenza as fans flocked to witness the English driver receive the iconic trophy. The ceramic replica of Bandini’s Ferrari 312/67, crafted by Goffredo Gaeta, symbolizes excellence and sportsmanship. Norris playfully remarked on the missing champagne, preventing a Budapest “déjà vu” scenario.

The Bandini Trophy, instituted in 1992, uniquely focuses on sportsmanship alongside racing achievements. Decided by a jury of motorsport experts, including journalists and former F1 team members, it highlights exceptional conduct in the competitive world of Formula 1. When asked by Motorsport Italy about areas to improve in F1, Norris reflected;

It's a difficult question. I've followed F1 since childhood. Everything changes for the fans, for the show. I love it as it is, the competition, and working with my team daily.

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Norris asserted he doesn’t want to be lucky in doing so and added that the team still has a few small things missing. He is. yearning for victory aims to compete for championship success. 

It would be nice to get my first victory, without a doubt. I think I have many years ahead of me and doing them with McLaren is my goal. But when I win I will want to do it while fighting for the championship at the same time.
Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamilton, Lando Norris, Max Verstappen (Left to right)
From left to right: Michael Schumacher (Credits: NY post), Lewis Hamilton (Credits: X), Lando Norris (Credits: Dash racer), Max Verstappen (Credits: Marca)

As Lando Norris accepted the Ferrari 312-inspired trophy, he joined the ranks of Formula 1 greats who had previously received this exclusive award such as Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamilton, and Max Verstappen. The Bandini Trophy, with its one-time-only rule for winners, represents a distinct honor in motorsport. Norris became the true protagonist of the ceremony, leaving fans and enthusiasts eager to witness his future triumphs.

The Emilia Romagna town of Faenza provided a picturesque backdrop for the awards ceremony, a fitting setting for recognizing Norris’s outstanding contributions to Formula 1. As the McLaren driver made an appointment for the 2024 edition, fans can anticipate the possibility of witnessing his first coveted victory at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in Imola. The Bandini Trophy, with its rich history and exclusive recipients, solidifies Norris’s place in the pantheon of motorsport greatness.

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