(L to R): Max Verstappen (NLD) Red Bull Racing with Lando Norris (GBR) McLaren on the drivers’ parade. 27.08.2023. Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 14, Dutch Grand Prix, Zandvoort, Netherlands, Race Day.
Lando Norris admits he is “open” to the possibility of becoming Max Verstappen’s team-mate in Formula 1 in the future.
Verstappen is tied to Red Bull on a long-term contract until the end of 2028, while Norris retains a deal with McLaren through 2025.
However, Norris has been approached numerous times by Red Bull, with the Briton revealing he held talks with the team before extending his McLaren contract last year.
Norris admitted last month that he had previously harboured thoughts of leaving McLaren, but the Woking side’s mid-season resurgence has convinced him the side can become a contender for World Championships in the years to come.
But the McLaren ace has conceded he would be prepared to drive in the same team as Verstappen, whom Norris considers already “one of the best drivers” in F1 history.
When asked ahead of last weekend’s Italian Grand Prix whether he be open to partnering Verstappen, Norris said: “It’s definitely something I would be open to in the future.
“I think I can happily say Max is probably one of the best drivers ever in the history of Formula 1. I never raced against him until I was in Formula 1 but I was always in the category below. In karting I already knew him reasonably well.
“Back in 2012-2013 was the first time I got to meet him and get to know him, so I’ve been able to witness what he’s doing and I think it’s not just that he’s in a good car and he’s able to perform.
“I think no matter what car he’s in, he’ll be able to perform at a similar level. Maybe with different results but at a similar level and I think at that point it’d be great to work alongside someone like that and, at the same time, see where I can really stand against him.
“I’d be open to it. I invited him to McLaren the other day. So, if he wants to come any time, he’s very welcome,” he remarked.
Lando Norris (GBR) McLaren celebrates his second position on the podium with race winner Max Verstappen (NLD) Red Bull Racing. 23.07.2023. Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 12, Hungarian Grand Prix, Budapest, Hungary, Race Day.
Red Bull’s long-standing interest in Norris has derived from its failure to find consistency in the second seat alongside Verstappen since Daniel Ricciardo’s departure at the end of 2018.
The struggles experienced by Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon resulted in Red Bull opting to go outside of its illustrious driver academy to sign the experienced Sergio Perez in 2021.
However, Perez has encountered troubles of his own throughout this year, slipping 144 points behind Verstappen in the Drivers’ Championship after winning two of the opening four races this season.
While Verstappen has recorded 10 consecutive victories, setting a new all-time F1 record in the process, Perez has only finished runner-up to his relentless team-mate on three occasions in that period.
Nevertheless, last week, Red Bull Team Principal dismissed claims that the Mexican could be replaced for next year, underlining that Perez has a contract in place and the team is happy with his performances.
Asked about his future on Thursday at Monza, Perez said: “From my side there is still a year and a half to go. So I think there’s no need to change anything. It’s more important now to focus on the races ahead and finish the season on a high. And then we will start discussing early next year [regarding] what’s the plan to go forwards.”
Keyword: Norris ‘open’ to becoming Verstappen’s F1 team-mate