Lando Norris has been strongly linked to a potential move to Red Bull, with Alex Albon, a former Red Bull driver, revealing that Norris has an ‘open invitation’ to join Max Verstappen as his teammate, potentially replacing Sergio Perez. Norris, a highly regarded young driver, has been in impressive form, securing four podium finishes in his last seven races.
The 23-year-old has engaged in discussions with Red Bull in the past, and recent performances have reignited speculation about a future move. According to Albon, the invitation for Norris to partner with Verstappen has been on the table for some time.
Albon stated, “I think if he wants it, yes, but let’s see because I think no one enjoys being Max’s teammate. It’s challenging, and I have experience with that. But if he’s confident in himself, as he should be… from what I’ve heard, the invitation has been open for a while. It’s hard to say now because, just like I have with Williams, you can tell that Lando has a very strong relationship with McLaren, and for now, there seems to be no reason to make a change.”
Norris has a contract with McLaren until the end of 2025, following a long-term deal he signed last year. He consistently competes for podiums as McLaren’s lead driver, while his teammate Oscar Piastri lacks the experience of the British driver.
However, whether Norris would consider joining Red Bull in the future remains uncertain. There have been rumors that Red Bull might part ways with Sergio Perez before the end of the next season, as he has struggled to perform well over the past two seasons.
Norris has expressed his openness to racing alongside Verstappen, stating, “It’s definitely something I would be open to in the future. I think I can confidently say that Max is one of the best drivers in the history of F1. I never raced against him until I entered F1, but I was always in the category below. In karting, I already knew him reasonably well. Back in 2012-2013, I got to meet him and get to know him, so I’ve been able to witness what he’s doing.
I think it’s not just about being in a good car; he can perform no matter what car he’s in, at a similar level. Maybe with different results, but at a similar level. At that point, it would be great to work alongside someone like that and see where I really stand against him. I’d be open to it.”
