Norris 2019 plans with McLaren likely dependent on Alonso

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Fernando Alonso's decision to remain with McLaren next season or move on to greener pastures will likely determine where Lando Norris will be racing in 2019.

The 18-year-old F2 racer, who just fulfilled two days of testing in Hungary with McLaren, could be promoted to a full time seat with the Woking-based outfit next season, although his mid-term future is out of his hands.

"Ideally, I'll be with McLaren next year," Norris told Spain's Marca.

"That's the perfect scenario, but it's not up to me to decide, it's up to the bosses and Fernando to make the decisions."

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Regardless of whether the two-time world champion decides to call it a day on his career in F1, McLaren is also pondering the possible hiring of Carlos Sainz should Renault confirm a deal rumored to be done and dusted between the French team and Force India's Esteban Ocon.

The odd man out would be Stoffel Vandoorne who has been outqualified and outpaced almost at every outing by Alonso.

Norris would like nothing more than to become a full-time Grand Prix driver in 2019, but if that prospect is delayed by twelve months, so be it.

"It's very difficult to say what will happen, as nobody knows what Fernando wants to do next year," Norris continued.

"Being in Formula 1 would be very good, but at the same time maybe it would be better to do free practice and get more chances to drive," he added.

"Until everyone starts deciding, I don't know what to say."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.