F1 News: Red Bull Advisor Brands Lando Norris Ideal Max Verstappen Teammate - "Strongest Of The Young Drivers"
Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko has revealed that intensive talks have taken place with McLaren driver Lando Norris for a possible seat on the team in the future.
Marko has explained in a recent interview with Kleine Zeitung that the Belgian-British driver would suit the Austrian team as "by far the strongest of the young drivers" as well as noting his strong friendship with their star driver and current championship leader, Max Verstappen.
Norris, who is in contract with McLaren until 2025, celebrated a second-place finish at the British Grand Prix last weekend behind Red Bull's Max Verstappen, with the pair having a great battle at the beginning of the race. Norris took the lead from Verstappen at the race start and led the race for four laps before the Dutchman took the place back. Marko explained that talks have already taken place, he commented:
"He has a contract at McLaren until 2025 but is by far the strongest of the young drivers. He would also suit Red Bull best because of his youthful character.
"And it is no secret that Max and he are good friends."
McLaren made significant improvements ahead of the race at Silverstone with the upgrades which were on Norris' MCL60. Norris and his rookie teammate Oscar Piastri qualified in second and third and finished the race in second and fourth, respectively.
Although Marko has mentioned the talks between the team and Norris, he and team chief Christian Horner have remained adamant that Sergio Perez's spot on the team is not in danger. The Mexican driver is in contract until the end of 2024, so this could be a hint of a potential replacement in the future.