F1 expert claims Max Verstappen and Lando Norris sensational swap deal 'could happen'

A Formula One expert has revealed that a swap deal between Max Verstappen and Lando Norris could be on the table amid recent rumours of unrest at Red Bull.

We are just four races deep in the 2025 Formula One season, and the rumour mill is already well and truly underway, with several reports claiming that reigning champion Verstappen could be looking to leave Red Bull in the near future.

The beginning of the ongoing season has made it clear that, as it stands, Red Bull are not ready to regularly challenge for race wins, denting the Dutchman's chances of adding to his four Drivers' Championship titles.

But now, an expert on the sport has had his say on the rumours, and revealed that it isn't completely off the cards that Red Bull and McLaren could facilitate a swap deal involving Verstappen and Norris.

While Red Bull have struggled so far this season, McLaren appear to have established themselves as the clear frontrunners for both the Drivers' and Constructors' Championships.

The Woking-based team have finished in first for three of the main races this season, taking seven of the 12 podium spots, making them an attractive option for Verstappen should be decide to leave Red Bull next season.

And F1 journalist Ewan Gale believes that, as crazy as it may seem, this move wouldn't be completely ruled out by either McLaren or Red Bull, should Norris or teammate Oscar Piastri be included in a deal.

Speaking on the Total Motorsport F1 Show, he said: “The only other place I could see Max going is McLaren. We know Zak Brown isn’t against a deal, let’s put it that way.

"Hypothetically, if it is a Norris and Piastri showdown this season and all hell breaks loose, will one of them be open to a swap? Potentially.

Max Verstappen could make a sensation move to McLaren in a swap deal involving Lando Norris or Oscar Piastri. (Image: Getty)

“That’s very outside-the-box thinking, but I don’t think it is Aston Martin or bust for Verstappen. Other pathways could arrive, and it is F1 after all.”

As it stands, Norris is still leading the Drivers' standings this season with just a three point lead over his teammate who has finished ahead of the Brit in all but one of the races this season so far.

But, it still appears to be more likely that should Verstappen decide to make a move ahead of next year, that Aston Martin could be the perfect choice after they secured the signature of former Red Bull chief technology officer Adrian Newey earlier this year.