According to a report from Italy, Formula 1 owners Liberty Media are allegedly pushing for a ‘dream team’ scenario at Red Bull, targeting the inclusion of Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc from 2025 or 2026 onwards.
The objective is to form a team of two ‘number one’ drivers in order to enhance the competition at the front of the field.
The report suggests that initial discussions between Red Bull and Leclerc took place in late May, as the Ferrari driver’s current contract is set to expire at the end of 2024.
Norris and Leclerc are considered frontrunners to secure a seat alongside reigning World Champion Max Verstappen in the medium-term.
Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies
Sergio Perez currently occupies that position, but with Daniel Ricciardo’s recent placement at AlphaTauri, the report suggests that a replacement for Perez alongside Verstappen could potentially happen in 2024, with Ricciardo returning to Red Bull.
Irrespective of specific driver movements, the report emphasises a long-term vision for a ‘dream team’ lineup at Red Bull.
Liberty Media, the owners of Formula 1, are reportedly keen to ensure that the fastest teams on the grid feature top-tier drivers alongside each other to generate dramatic racing.
The Italian report states, “There is, in fact, a strong desire on the part of Liberty Media to try to convince the top teams to have two truly competitive drivers in the team, in order to liven up the spectacle even if only one team dominates.
“The American giant has realised that it is very complicated to repeat seasons like 2021, even by frequently resetting the technical regulations and with the impossibility of extending their life too much.
“The manager of the top motorsport series, therefore, wants to try to improve the show by working on a more sporting side.”
READ: Red Bull under fire for controversial Daniel Ricciardo move
Additionally, the report mentions that both Red Bull and Aston Martin have reportedly engaged in exploratory talks with Leclerc regarding a potential move.
Ferrari is also looking to secure Leclerc’s future beyond the end of 2024.
Norris is highly regarded by Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko, although he is currently locked into a contract with McLaren until the end of 2025, with no apparent escape clauses for either party.