Lando Norris has confirmed he held talks with Red Bull before signing a long-term contract with McLaren ahead of the start of the 2022 Formula 1 season.
The 22-year-old’s deal means his immediate future is at the Woking outfit, with the deal locking him in through the end of 2025.
However, while speaking with Auto Motor und Sport, Norris revealed he held talks with Red Bull, but opted to stay with McLaren as they give him the best chance of achieving his goals.
“Of course there are talks with other people from time to time,” said Norris. “You always ask yourself the question: What is the best thing for my career? I want to win and win world championships.
“There have been talks with Red Bull. They are a team that has been in the top three for years. But that just shows even more how much confidence I have in McLaren.
“Although there were talks, I felt McLaren was better for me to achieve my goals.”
Norris happy at McLaren
While Red Bull are on their way to clinching the 2022 Constructors’ championship and Max Verstappen is a double World Champion, McLaren have struggled in 2022 after competing with Ferrari for third in 2021.
The team are locked in a battle with Alpine for fourth in the standings, but Norris insists he’s happy with his decision to remain with McLaren, who are in the midst of completing infrastructure upgrades.
“I’m super happy and comfortable. I enjoy it at McLaren,” Norris said. “I enjoy working with the guys. I believe in them. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t have signed a long-term contract.
“My head is looking ahead. My ideas are long-term. We have to keep working continuously. In 2024 and 2025, I will then have my best chance with McLaren.”
