'We had a contract ready' - Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko reveals team's failed attempt to sign Lando Norris

Red Bull's advisor, Dr Helmut Marko, recently shed light on the team's unsuccessful attempt to sign McLaren star Lando Norris. According to Marko, Red Bull had made significant strides in securing a deal with Norris before McLaren intervened to halt the move.

Lando Norris, who joined McLaren's junior program in 2017, has been a crucial part of the team since his Formula 1 debut at the 2019 Australian Grand Prix. Over the years, he has become one of the sport's top drivers. He is currently sitting second in the drivers' championship, trailing only Max Verstappen by 62 points with eight races left in the season. His remarkable performances have made him a driver in high demand.

What did Helmut Marko say about Lando Norris?

In an interview on the Inside Line F1 podcast, Dr Helmut Marko disclosed that Red Bull came very close to securing Norris' signature for their sister team, Toro Rosso (now known as VCARB). The discussions with the British driver were advanced, and a contract was ready, which could have seen Norris in Red Bull's ranks. However, McLaren swiftly stepped in to block the move.

"We had serious discussions and we had a contract ready for Lando Norris. For AlphaTauri, or Toro Rosso at that time. Unfortunately, they (McLaren) found out," Marko stated. He further explained that McLaren had two contracts in place, one of which included a clause that prevented Norris from leaving the team. This clause ultimately stopped any potential cooperation between Red Bull and the British driver.

At the time of Red Bull's interest, Norris was on the brink of his Formula 1 debut. Toro Rosso’s lineup then consisted of Alex Albon and Daniil Kvyat, two drivers who were solid but not on the same level of potential that Norris has demonstrated in recent seasons.

Despite Red Bull's failure to sign Norris, the young Briton has remained a key part of McLaren's resurgence. Meanwhile, Red Bull continues to dominate with Max Verstappen, but the what-ifs surrounding Norris’ potential at Red Bull still linger.