Speculation around Max Verstappen‘s future in Formula 1 has intensified, with Aston Martin emerging as a potential destination if they are willing to meet his substantial financial demands. The driver currently contracted with Red Bull until 2028, has been at the center of discussions throughout the British Grand Prix weekend, where he responded to persistent transfer rumors.
While Mercedes is often seen as a frontrunner should Verstappen decide to leave Red Bull, Aston Martin’s ample resources and clear ambitions position them as serious contenders. The team‘s acquisition of star car designer Adrian Newey from Red Bull adds to the intrigue and suggests they may target Verstappen next.
Aston Martin’s position in the race for Verstappen
Max Verstappen remains under contract with Red Bull through 2028, but an unconfirmed exit clause is believed to allow him to reconsider his options during the summer break. Despite widespread speculation, reports from the Netherlands decisively deny that Verstappen has agreed to join Mercedes, although the departure of George Russell from Mercedes at the end of this season leaves a high-profile seat potentially open in 2026.
Martin Brundle suggested that Russell’s unsettled contract status might lead him elsewhere, thereby creating an opportunity for other teams. Aston Martin’s billionaire owner, Lawrence Stroll, is eager to elevate the team’s status in Formula 1, and signing Verstappen would be a significant step in that direction.
The challenge of Verstappen’s financial demands
Ex-champion Damon Hill highlighted a significant obstacle for any team hoping to sign Verstappen: his “astronomical” asking price. Whether Aston Martin or another team must pay a hefty fee to Red Bull or the driver himself, the cost will be considerable. Verstappen currently commands the highest salary in Formula 1, reportedly more than three times what Aston Martin pays to Fernando Alonso.
Despite Aston Martin’s firm commitment to Alonso and Lance Stroll, the prospect of reuniting Verstappen and Newey in green is tantalizing but not without complications. Some reports indicate that the two did not have the closest personal relationship during their time together at Red Bull, which could factor into Verstappen’s decision-making.
Verstappen and Newey’s Dynamic
Craig Slater of Sky Sports observed nuances in the relationship between Verstappen and Newey, saying,
“I’m not saying Max and Adrian Newey had a kind of problem relationship at Red Bull,”
and added,
“But I’m not sure that they were the closest of companions in arms, if you like. That’s been expressed to me.”
Still, he affirmed,
“Professionally, I do think they hold each other in high regard.”
Regardless of personal dynamics, Verstappen’s priority remains securing a competitive car for the introduction of the 2026 regulations. The driver and Newey formed part of the dominant Red Bull setup in previous seasons, with Verstappen having won two of 11 grands prix this year, though currently trailing by 69 points behind championship leader Oscar Piastri.
What lies ahead for Verstappen and Aston Martin?
As the 2026 season approaches, the search for a winning combination intensifies, with Verstappen’s potential move casting a long shadow over team strategies. Aston Martin’s ambitions backed by Lawrence Stroll’s investments could reshape the F1 landscape if they manage to secure Verstappen’s signature despite the steep financial demands.
The challenge will be balancing Verstappen’s cost against Aston Martin’s current commitment to Alonso and the broader team structure. Meanwhile, Mercedes and Ferrari remain poised as notable contenders should Verstappen reconsider his future with Red Bull.
