Helmut Marko was spotted talking to Lando Norris' manager before the British Grand Prix - sparking rumours of a switch to Red Bull.
Norris finished second at his home race at Silverstone on a glorious Sunday afternoon for McLaren, with Australian team-mate Oscar Piastri placing fourth. It's the 23-year-old Brit's first podium in more than a year and a reminder of his obvious talent.
Norris has already achieved seven podiums in his blossoming career and was recently described as "incredibly talented" with a "bright future" by Lewis Hamilton. He may even be good enough to be given a seat by Red Bull, Formula One's dominant team.
While Max Verstappen's future at Red Bull is secure as the reigning two-time world champion, his team-mate Sergio Perez is struggling for pace in F1's quickest car. Perez has gone six races without a win, with just two podiums coming during that time.
In a picture obtained by The Telegraph, the head of Red Bull's driver development programme Marko is seen talking to Norris' manager Mark Berryman. The latter has represented Norris since his karting days, fuelling speculation among fans.
There's no guarantee the two were talking about Norris, as Berryman represents other drivers. One of his clients is Zane Maloney, a 19-year-old driver who is currently competing in Formula Two. Maloney is part of Red Bull's junior programme as a reserve F1 driver.
Yet the picture will make fans wonder if Norris is heading to Red Bull, especially with Perez's form wavering. Although Red Bull are delighted to see runaway leader Verstappen storm towards a third title, they need both their drivers to perform.
Red Bull aren't afraid to cut a driver halfway through a season. Pierre Gasly was dropped after the 12th race of 2019 to make way for Alex Albon. Gasly completed the season driving for Toro Rosso (now AlphaTauri), the second team Red Bull own in F1.
Red Bull have thrown their support behind Perez. Marko said after the British GP: "In the last 10 laps he was the fastest driver in the field... His position is not in danger at all."
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It's believed Red Bull will give Perez time to regain his form, but they will be forced to consider his future if he continues to deliver under par results. All eyes will now be on Hungarian Grand Prix, which takes place at the Hungaroring on July 23.
Norris admitted he was "very proud" to achieve a podium at the British GP but is determined to keep on progressing in F1. He said: "It's pretty special to be in that position... My heart was racing a bit more than normal, and I was watching the crowd."
He added: "It's an honour to be able to race with these drivers who have created history and be some of the best drivers ever to come through F1. I want to be someone who can join in and create some of my own history."
