Red Bull has been showcasing consistent performance ever since the beginning of the 2024 season. Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez have consistently scored good points without any major mistakes. However, Perez’s performance will be put under a microscope as his contract expires this season’s end. Hence, speaking over the potential replacements, Dr. Helmut Marko showcased an interest in acquiring the services of Lando Norris .
Multiple drivers have been rumored to be considered for the coveted spot at Red Bull alongside Max Verstappen. Primarily, Carlos Sainz is one of the prime candidates for potentially replacing Sergio Perez. Over this matter, Helmut Marko pointed out his interests in Lando Norris.
Marko asserted that Norris is young and is in Red Bull’s ‘focus’ for a potential acquirement.
He is young and certainly in our focus Helmut Marko told ServusTV (H/T: racingnews365.com)
Additionally, Marko recalled how Norris’ father used to joke with him regarding the celebration of his maiden victory. The joke was about the 24-year-old not celebrating a Grand Prix win until Max Verstappen retired from the sport. Regardless, the 80-year-old advised Norris to join Red Bull as he would be driving a faster car, taking a dig at McLaren’s slower pace.
His father always jokes that Lando won’t celebrate his first Grand Prix victory until Max [Verstappen] retires. I told him that he had to come to us, then it would definitely go faster. Helmut Marko noted.
Helmut Marko is also interested in acquiring Oscar Piastri
Helmut Marko had his eye out for the young talents in F1 to work alongside Verstappen. However, such discussions are useful only if Perez fails to perform well. Christian Horner had recently declined any rumors of the 34-year-old being ousted from the team. Amidst this, Marko showered interest in acquiring Oscar Piastri beside Norris.
The 80-year-old pointed out that both the drivers had a long-term contract with McLaren. Norris and Piastri are locked in with Woking till the end of the 2026 season. Hence, the two drivers couldn’t be acquired for a short-term contract. However, Marko pointed out that both options were interesting for Milton Keynes in the future.
Norris has at least a contract until 2026, so he is not an option in the short term, nor is Oscar Piastri, But both drivers are certainly interesting for us in the future. Helmut Marko mentioned.
The papaya-colored team’s current form has been looking promising for competing with Red Bull down the season. Woking is following closely in third to Ferrari and providing great competition to the Italian constructor. The team will keep upgrading the challenger to potentially close the gap to the teams ahead. McLaren hasn’t committed any major mistakes yet and has so far had a smooth campaign.
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