Sky Sports F1 reporter Ted Kravitz has named Lando Norris as a significant competitor to Max Verstappen. Kravitz’s assessment comes as the 2026 Formula 1 season approaches its final rounds, with the championship battle intensifying.
Kravitz has previously highlighted Norris’s strong performances, noting McLaren’s satisfaction with their current driver lineup. He suggested this contentment makes a potential move for Verstappen to McLaren unlikely, despite speculation.
Lando Norris, the reigning 2025 Formula 1 World Champion, has demonstrated strong form in the current season. He secured victories at the Hungarian Grand Prix and the Dutch Grand Prix earlier this year.
Despite these wins, McLaren has faced challenges in 2026, particularly concerning straight-line speed. The team has, however, shown consistent in-season development to improve their MCL40 car.
Max Verstappen, currently driving for Red Bull, sits fifth in the 2026 Drivers’ Championship standings. He trails championship leader Kimi Antonelli by 129 points.
Red Bull experienced early season struggles with their RB22 power unit and aerodynamic pressure. However, the team has shown recent improvements, with Verstappen securing a victory at the Bahrain Grand Prix held at Sepang.
The 2026 Drivers’ Championship is currently led by Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, who holds a commanding 325 points. Antonelli is 89 points clear of his teammate George Russell.
Mercedes also leads the Constructors’ Championship with 561 points, holding a 143-point advantage over Ferrari. Antonelli has secured eight wins, six poles, and 13 podiums this season.
In the recent Singapore Grand Prix Sprint, Max Verstappen secured the victory. Kimi Antonelli finished fourth, further extending his championship lead after George Russell crashed out.
Lando Norris qualified fifth fastest for the Singapore Sprint race. The main Singapore Grand Prix race is scheduled to take place later today, October 11, 2026, at the Marina Bay Street Circuit.
Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton will start second and third respectively in the Singapore Grand Prix. They aim to challenge Verstappen and the Mercedes drivers for a strong result.
I think the only option for him at the moment is McLaren, but they are in a difficult situation and the team is very happy with both of its drivers.
Kravitz’s comments from July 2026 indicated that McLaren’s commitment to Norris and Oscar Piastri limited Verstappen’s options outside Red Bull.
