Norris open to Verstappen teammate challenge

Lando Norris has insisted he is open to becoming Max Verstappen's teammate in Formula 1.

The Briton is currently contracted with McLaren until the end of 2025, while Verstappen has a long-term deal in place that spans to the conclusion of the 2028 campaign.

Verstappen has developed a reputation as an impossible teammate since joining Red Bull having seen Daniel Ricciardo depart the team before Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon were dropped through an inability to match the Dutchman.

Sergio Perez is currently struggling to keep tabs on the championship leader, who has secured 11 wins from 13 races this season, including a joint-F1 record of the last nine in a row.

Norris has impressed with McLaren since making the step into F1 and has largely outshone the Woking-based outfit's machinery since the start of the sport's newest technical regulatory era.

While a partnership between the duo is unlikely in the near future due to Norris' being tied down for the next two seasons, he hasn't shied away from the potential challenge of teaming up with Verstappen.

“It's definitely something I would be open to in the future,” he told media including RacingNews365.com.

“I think I can happily say that Max is probably one of the best drivers in the history of Formula 1.

“I never raced against him until I was in Formula 1. I was always in the category below.

In karting, I already knew him reasonably well. Back in 2012, 2013 it was the first time I got to meet him, get to know him and things like that, so I've been able to witness what he's doing.

“It's not just that he's in a good car - he's able to perform no matter what car he's in, he'll be able to perform at a similar level.

“Maybe with different results, but still at a similar similar level. I think at that point, it would be great to work alongside someone like that.

“At the same time, see where I can really stand against him. I'd be open for it.

“I invited him to McLaren the other day. So if he wants to come anytime he's very welcome.”