Lando Norris addresses Max Verstappen exit suggestions: 'Everyone wants Max in F1'

Lando Norris has addressed suggestions that Max Verstappen could leave Formula 1 at the end of the season, insisting that "everyone wants Max in F1".

The four-time world champion himself has hinted that he could decide to walk away from the sport at the end of 2026, largely due to the current power unit regulations.

Verstappen has been one of the most vocal critics of the new regulations and has already referred to them this year as "Formula E on steroids" and "anti-racing".

It remains to be seen whether the changes made by the FIA, due to come into effect from next weekend's Miami Grand Prix, will satisfy the Dutchman or push him closer to quitting.

Norris is eager for the 28-year-old to remain in F1 given the talent he possesses, with the reigning world champion wanting to test himself against the best.

However, the Briton is also aware that it is entirely up to the Red Bull driver whether he wants to race elsewhere, as he is unsure what Verstappen will do.

Asked by Sky F1 if he would sorry to see Verstappen quit, Norris replied: "Do I enjoy racing against him? Yes and no, at times — but that’s because he’s, I think, one of the best you’ll ever see in Formula 1. He’s a tough fighter, and he makes your life incredibly hard sometimes, but that’s a good thing, right?

"And I think everyone wants Max in Formula 1. Who knows? I have no idea what he’s going to go and do.

"Of course, I want to keep racing against him for as long as possible, because you always want to try to prove yourself against the best — and he is that.

"So, yeah, go ask him. I guess he can do whatever he wants. He’s earned the right to do that. He doesn’t have to do anything.

"But I still enjoyed watching him in GTs the other day and that kind of thing. So yeah, he’s earned the right to go and do whatever he wants."