There has always been a certain amount of uncertainty over the occupation of the 2nd Red Bull seat alongside Max Verstappen. Drivers of different experience levels have come and succumbed to the Dutchman’s might. During all this, Team Advisor Helmut Marko has always had some critical things to say about the situation. But the idea of welcoming Lando Norris to Red Bull was one he wasn’t against. However, the Briton’s recent upward progress has made Verstappen the opposing force in this decision.

Norris and Verstappen have one of the best rapport among different driver friendships in the paddock. They are always comfortable around each other and for both, their race-craft speaks more than the answers they give in interviews. Moreover, their funny interactions in the media pen also show their strong bond. Maybe both these reasons are what let Marko not have to counter against the potential transfer. Despite the most difficult man to convince having been convinced, unexpectedly, Verstappen, doesn’t see a future with Norris alongside him at Red Bull. It looks like Norris’ comeback has shaken him.

“I know he [Lando] is one of the best drivers out there at the moment and, for sure, it would be very interesting to team up with each other,” said Verstappen, hinting at a potential ‘best buds’ driver pairing. But coming back to reality, he stated, “But, at the moment, of course, that’s not possible.”

Read More: Amid RB Speculations, Lando Norris Reveals Victorious Feat With Max Verstappen Against Mercedes Rival

Was it the long-term McLaren-Norris contract that the 2x champ was hinting towards or was it an insecurity of being beaten in the same machinery by a young talent that got him worried? It sure looks like the latter but Verstappen’s showing in FP1 at Monza paints a different picture.

Lando Norris lags behind as Max Verstappen tops FP1 charts at the Italian GP

Max Verstappen is willing to give no moment of rest or mercy to his rivals. Even in Free Practice sessions, he is doing better than everybody. In a busy FP1 session at Monza, the Red Bull racer set the track ablaze with a time to beat of 1:22.657, Naturally, no driver was able to beat the time.

Lando Norris could only manage a P7 finish in his MCL60, with a time of 1:23.241. He was 0.584 seconds behind the championship leader and reigning World Champion. Both Ferraris were quicker than him, with Carlos Sainz finishing P2.

So, along with Mercedes and Aston Martin, Norris will possibly have to fight it with Ferrari on their home ground. What are your predictions for the Qualifying tomorrow?

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