Helmut Marko Opens RB’s Doors to Lando Norris Albeit With a Shameful Demand to Protect Max Verstappen

At the vibrant heart of Silverstone during the British GP, Helmut Marko set the rumor mills spinning. His conversations with the agent of Lando Norris injected an air of electric anticipation into the F1 fraternity. The McLaren star had just etched his name in his home race, seizing a commendable P2 as he held his ground against the relentless surge of Lewis Hamilton, while Max Verstappen led the charge, which led to praises from the RBR advisor.

Helmut Marko is known for his swift and unanticipated moves, and his words usually carry a weighty revelation. “He [Lando Norris] has a contract with McLaren until 2025, but among the young drivers, he is by far the strongest,” Marko confessed,“His youthful nature would also suit Red Bull the best.” But recently when he was asked about the prospect of Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen‘s pairing, with no doubts he said in an interview with Motorsport-Magazin, “With Norris, I can well imagine that, with Hamilton I have a harder time. In principle, we never have a team order or anything like that.”

Yet, as the spotlight of possibility shines on the prospect of Norris joining Red Bull, Marko’s demand in the same interview emerges, “That would be ideal for the public, for TV and journalists. But for the success & leadership of the team. The Austrian explained Red Bull’s drive to win the championship every year. Thus his statements also reflect the team’s inherent preference for their champ Max Verstappen.

Marko further added, “It’s better if you have a clear hierarchy.” The allure of a Norris-Verstappen duo is undeniably magnetic, a spectacle that could set the F1 world ablaze but despite being able to drive the fastest car on the grid, will Norris settle for being the no. 2? Marko thinks so it seems. Yet, Marko’s admission resonates with the age-old conundrum of ‘team success versus individual brilliance.

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The demand for hierarchy, however controversial, is a nod to the delicate balance required for victory. With Verstappen a seasoned champion, the challenge lies in crafting a symphony that blends the talents harmoniously. However, beneath the surface of this thrilling prospect lies a shadow of caution and concern by Verstappen’s personal advocate.

Helmut Marko’s crucial consideration for Max Verstappen

While Marko entertains the thought of Lando Norris seamlessly integrating into the Red Bull fold, he approaches the idea of Hamilton’s arrival with a cautious eye. The echoes of history resonate in his words, invoking the legendary rivalry between Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost. Marko’s discerning perspective offers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes complexities that could ensue from having Hamilton and Verstappen share a garage.

He concedes that while Norris’ presence might not disrupt the hierarchy, the entry of a titan like Hamilton could ignite a rivalry reminiscent of Senna and Prost. He said, “In the past, we saw, for example, Senna and Prost, two superstars, who only looked at each other and put the team in second place.” Marko’s belief underscores the importance of maintaining a clear hierarchy within the team.

What do you think will Lando Norris not affect the balance of hierarchy, after all everyone is here to win?

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