Lando Norris could be loaned out for this season, but without any kind of long-term commitment, says McLaren’s CEO, Zak Brown.
The British F2 driver was sought out by Toro Rosso recently as a possible replacement for Brendon Hartley. But McLaren refused to loan him out since Red Bull wanted to retain him for 2019 season.
McLaren’s existing drivers Fernando Alonso and Stoffel Vandoorne both are due for a contract renewal by the end of this season and Norris would also be available for the Woking team for next year., giving them options for the next racing season.
It is unlikely Norris would don the Toro Rosso uniform this year. But Brown is willing to consider a short-term deal for their reserve driver as it may help him get an early start in F1.
When asked if he would consider loaning out Norris, Brown said: “If there was an opportunity for Lando to gain experience then that’s something we would consider,”
“Lando is a McLaren driver. He has a bright future here, but we do not have an interest in letting Lando go anywhere on a long-term deal.”
After the last two failed races in F1, Alonso is fully focused on his Le Mans debut this weekend. Looking at McLaren’s current performance in F1 and potential entry into IndyCar, it is very likely the Spaniard may retire from grand prix racing and move to the American series.
When Sky Sports asked Alonso about the future, he said: “I don’t know, 2019 is still a long way ahead,”
“Normally, I try to take my decisions after the summer break and this year is no different.
“An important decision is coming for sure.”
