All it took was one podium finish in a race to change the perspective around Lando Norris and McLaren. The Woking outfit had one of the worst starts to a season in the team’s history. However, at the British GP, they completely changed the perspective with a massive upgrade, putting both drivers on the top of the grid. In fact, the performance Norris put in at Silverstone even gave the mighty Max Verstappen a scare. This performance not only gave Max Verstappen something to think about but also gave the Red Bull hierarchy something to think about.

At the British GP, RBR’s misery continued in their second driver division. They took care of the problem at Alpha Tauri by replacing Nyck de Vries, a decision that earned them some criticism. However, replacing Sergio Perez at the moment is not an option. Although, before the new season begins, Helmut Marko made it clear they will be looking to replace the Mexican. Norris, after his performance, has put himself in the running.

However, the Brit is tied to McLaren till the end of the 2025 season, so he will be out of contention until then. Although in the long-term Norris is the strongest contender for the Red Bull seat, according to Marko’s comments to DAZN.

“He has a contract with McLaren until 2025, but he is by far the strongest of the young drivers. His youthful nature would also suit him better at Red Bull. And it’s no secret that he and Max are good friends,” he says.

Read More: McLaren Boss Paints a Gloomy Picture for Lando Norris & Co

However, the question remains if Norris would want to become a second driver on any team. The 23-year-old is incredibly talented and apart from that, he’s loyal.

Lando Norris plays down Red Bull rumors

Norris has had opportunities to become part of the Red Bull family on multiple occasions throughout his career. However, the Brit chose McLaren every single time. In fact, the Brit has stuck around even when the team was at its lowest and showcased his loyalty publicly. Now that McLaren has given him arguably the second-fastest car on the grid, there is little reason to switch sides. In fact, a few weeks ago, when the MCL60 was still struggling, Norris defused all rumors of a move away and once again proved his loyalty.

“I feel like it’s a compliment that people are talking about it,” says Norris. “Because it’s nice that a lot of people believe that I should have an opportunity to be able to do better than what I’m doing now, or fighting for higher positions that don’t what I’m fighting for now.” Now, Norris does have the opportunity to fight for higher positions and does have the car that can deliver results. Now, a move away does not make sense.

WATCH THIS STORY: How Lando Norris Had a Chance to Go to Red Bull But Instead Chose McLaren

However, as time passes and if Red Bull stays a few steps ahead of the rest of the grid, will Norris reconsider? Given he gets an offer from the mighty Red Bull.