2009 Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button has backed Lando Norris to take on Max Verstappen at Red Bull. Norris has been linked with a future move to Red Bull after the Briton confirmed that he would be open to partnering with Verstappen. Norris currently races for McLaren and has a contract in place until the end of the 2025 campaign, while Verstappen’s deal doesn’t expire until 2028. Speaking to Sky Sports F1 , Button highlighted that he opted to join McLaren and race against Lewis Hamilton in 2010 because he wanted to experience direct competition with a World Champion. "The issue is you have to be the best to be a World Champion," Button said. "That was the whole thing for me when I left Brawn. "I was like: 'I have to go to McLaren because I need to race against Lewis Hamilton' who was regarded as the best. "That’s what he [Norris] got to decide if he wants to do."
‘Norris facing hard choice’
McLaren endured a difficult start to the year but has made a strong turnaround at recent races, with Norris scoring a duo of podiums. However, McLaren is still lacking pace compared to Red Bull, who is dominating the current campaign. Verstappen is cruising toward a third consecutive title with little obstacles in his way. As McLaren aims to make strides towards the head of hte field, Button has said that Norris must soon choose to place his trust in the Woking-based squad or seek a challenge elsewhere. "I think if he [Norris] is clever, he will decide on a car that suits his style," Button said. "We’ve seen from a lot of drivers, the Red Bull doesn’t suit many drivers, apart from Max. "So, it’s not an easy decision for him. He’s not in a car that can win right now. And it probably won’t next year either, I don’t think. "He’s got to be looking elsewhere for 2025. Or he puts his trust in McLaren. They’ve won races, they’ve won championships, and it can come back around. "So, as long as he can see the future and think that they’re in a good place as a team, and it gives him confidence, stay there. "If not, go and fight Max Verstappen in his own team. But that’s a hard one."
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