Lando Norris hits back at major Max Verstappen to McLaren talks attention

Lando Norris has hit back at the major attention the reported talks between Max Verstappen and McLaren have received, insisting that other drivers have also been interested in joining the outfit.

Following the Austrian Grand Prix, it was reported that the four-time world champion's camp had held talks with the papaya squad, initiated by the former.

Verstappen is yet to commit to Red Bull for 2027 despite a positive second-place finish at the Milton Keynes-based outfit's home race, with an exit clause able to be activated in Hungary.

In addition to McLaren, the Dutchman has also been consistently linked to Mercedes, despite George Russell insisting that he will remain with the Silver Arrows next year.

McLaren CEO Zak Brown has outlined that there is no space for Verstappen due to its current line-up of Norris and Oscar Piastri, although the reigning world champion is not against the idea should it happen.

However, Norris hit back at the fact that it is not just the 28-year-old who has been linked to McLaren, yet others have not received the same media attention.

Asked for his thoughts on reports of Verstappen speaking to McLaren, Norris said: "To be honest, a lot of drivers want to come to McLaren, so I don't know why you just... I don't know why you just highlight Max. 

"There's quite a few others that I know want to come as well. So, no, I mean, it's a cool thing. It's a good thing that a four-time world champion wants to come on board and potentially join the team. I don't know how much of it is true, but it's a cool thing.

"And if there's an opportunity for me to drive with other people, it's something I've always looked forward to. But it's not a thing for now. It's not a serious thing, and I'm also just excited for my future with McLaren. I'm still going to be here for many, many more years, so I'm excited for whoever I get partnered with.

"But, for the time being, me and Oscar are working very well together and, yeah, we're excited to work together for more years too. So, that's our focus for now."