Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, fierce competitors on the Formula 1 track, recently set aside their racing rivalry to team up in a friendly game of padel in Monaco. The duo, usually battling it out for podium positions, took a break from the intense world of motorsports to enjoy some off-track camaraderie.
Just championship rivals Max and Lando teaming up to play padel in Monaco 👀 pic.twitter.com/uhF6qdY9mP
— ESPN F1 (@ESPNF1) May 23, 2024
Lando Norris, who has been Max Verstappen’s closest challenger in recent races, has been putting McLaren in a strong position. With a win and two second-place finishes in the last three races, Norris has proven his mettle. McLaren, with two competitive drivers—Norris and teammate Oscar Piastri—regularly at the front of the grid, is putting pressure on Red Bull. Verstappen himself acknowledged that Norris is a growing title threat.
As they wielded their padel rackets, Max and Lando likely shared a few laughs and strategic insights. It’s refreshing to see these fierce competitors enjoying a different kind of match—one that doesn’t involve high-speed corners or tire strategies. Perhaps they even discussed Monaco’s iconic street circuit, where both have raced and where Norris finished on the podium in 2021.
While the championship battle continues on the track, this off-track collaboration reminds us that even rivals can find common ground beyond the race cars. As they volleyed the ball back and forth, Max Verstappen and Norris demonstrated that sportsmanship and friendship can coexist, even in the high-pressure world of Formula 1.
Red Bull’s 2025 Driver Line-Up: Max Verstappen and TBC
Max Verstappen, the Dutch sensation, is already locked into a long-term contract with Red Bull. His impressive performances and first title-winning season secured him a mega six-year extension, which will keep him in Milton Keynes until the end of the 2028 campaign.
The big question mark lies next to Verstappen—who will partner with him in the other Red Bull car? As of now, the seat remains unconfirmed. However, there are a few contenders:
- Sergio Perez: The Mexican driver, who joined Red Bull in 2021, is currently in a decent position to retain his seat. His contract, however, expires at the end of the 2024 season. If Perez continues to perform well, he might secure the coveted spot for 2025.
- Daniel Ricciardo: Although not officially confirmed, Daniel Ricciardo could be a strong candidate. The Australian driver has a wealth of experience and previously raced for Red Bull from 2014 to 2018. His return to the team would certainly create excitement among fans.
- Other Prospects: Red Bull’s second team, AlphaTauri, often serves as a talent pipeline. Keep an eye on young drivers like Yuki Tsunoda or Jüri Vips, who could make a leap to the senior team.
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