Faced with threats of Max Verstappen’s departure, Lando Norris remains skeptical. The Brit believes that the Dutchman will stay… while acknowledging the enormous impact of a potential withdrawal.
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Since the beginning of the 2026 season, Max Verstappen no longer hides his annoyance with the new rules and the philosophy of the single-seaters. The four-time world champion particularly criticizes the balance between thermal engine and electric energy, now equally distributed.
A frustration amplified by Red Bull’s difficulties, unable to play a leading role at the start of this championship. Despite this context, Verstappen states that his feeling would remain the same even with a car capable of winning.
Norris tempers departure rumors
For his part, Lando Norris does not seem convinced by the hypothesis of an imminent departure. The Briton, crowned champion in 2025, nevertheless recognizes that his rival has every right to freely choose his future.
“He has won four world championships and he has always been like that,” explains Norris. “It’s nothing new. He has always been very honest about what he thinks, whether we agree or not. He is himself, and that’s a very good way to live.”
Even if he doubts this scenario, Norris admits that a departure from Verstappen would leave an immense void in Formula 1. For him, the Dutchman is one of the absolute benchmarks of the discipline.
“It would be a shame for the sport, a real loss if that happened, because he is probably one of the best drivers you will see in Formula 1” he affirms.
Beyond the spectacle, Norris also insists on the competitive aspect: “It would also be a shame for us, because he makes our lives very difficult, but it’s always great to race against him. You want to face the best in the world, and he is clearly one of them.”
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A clear-sighted look at the evolution of F1
Norris also brings an interesting nuance to the criticisms related to the new single-seaters. According to him, perception depends a lot on the drivers’ experience.
“For newcomers, these cars are incredible. But for those who have known the older generations, there is necessarily a point of comparison. Everything is relative,” he explains.
The Briton also mentions with interest Verstappen’s escapades outside F1, particularly in GT.
“I also liked watching him in GT. If it gives me the opportunity to see him race elsewhere, that’s not a bad thing,” he adds.
A clear objective: a fifth title
Despite the doubts, Norris remains convinced that Verstappen will not leave the discipline in the short term. A key element reinforces his conviction: the Dutchman’s intact ambition.
“I hope things will improve. And I saw that he said he wanted to win a fifth world title, so I’m sure he will stay longer than people think,” he concludes.
In a paddock full of uncertainty, Norris is therefore banking on continuity. And as long as Verstappen aims for new heights, Formula 1 should still be able to count on one of its greatest talents.