Helmut Marko said it was “unfortunate” that Lando Norris signed a long-term contract with McLaren.
The Briton continues to be highly regarded in the paddock and among decision-makers at Red Bull. Norris has already been involved in talks with the team, most recently before signing his current contract with McLaren.
This deal helps keep him with the team through the end of the 2025 season. It’s a gesture of religion on the part of the 23-year-old who wants to win with McLaren but made it clear he would be forced to look elsewhere if the team can. It simply will not keep its promises in the next two years.
Red Bull could end up being his destination if Norris decides to leave. Max Verstappen is linked until 2028, but Sergio Perez’s future is much cloudier with one year remaining on his contract and much speculation after his poor form last season.
Team advisor Marko, 80, spoke about the Mexican’s long career in a verbal exchange with Red Bull-owned Austrian channel Servus TV after the Italian Grand Prix. He also spoke about Norris, strongly hinting that the Briton remains a prime target for the team. .
“Perez is not consistent. He’s not focused,” Marko said. “But he has a contract until 2024 and Lando Norris has a contract until 2025. Too bad it’s for so long, because I would be one of the candidates. “
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“At that time we had already reached an agreement with Norris for Toro Rosso, until his manager realised that there was an option in the contract with McLaren. But in terms of young people and speed, it would suit us very well. “
Meanwhile, Perez, who has been adamant in his claims that he intends to stay at Red Bull, has indicated for the first time that he would possibly be open to a fresh start elsewhere. He said: “I think now, with the season we’ve had, it’s vital in the next few races to be in an environment where I feel I can contribute. And if that position in 2024 is not there, then we have to look for alternatives.
However, he said re-specialising at Red Bull remains his preference, adding: “But, for now, my main goal is to re-specialise here and win more races. And keep winning championships with Red Bull. As you say, I have a contract. “for next year. So sometime next year we’ll see. “
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