Max Verstappen has stated the sole reason that could prompt him to leave Red Bull and join Ferrari lies in a performance uplift. The four-time Formula 1 World Champion, recently linked with a possible transfer to the Scuderia, confirmed discussions about such a move had taken place, including talks involving his father, Jos Verstappen. However, Verstappen remains clear that no offers are currently close, emphasizing that a switch would depend entirely on Ferrari offering the chance to win races and championships.
Speaking ahead of the Italian Grand Prix weekend, the 27-year-old Dutch driver acknowledged the speculation surrounding a Ferrari move but maintained a cautious stance. He clarified that joining Ferrari would not be driven by the prestige of the team alone.
Max Verstappen elaborated on this perspective, highlighting the importance of competitive performance over brand allure. He remarked,
“There are many possibilities in this life. Ferrari is an incredible brand. All drivers imagine themselves there. But I think that’s where the mistake lies: only driving for the sake of driving for Ferrari,”
—Max Verstappen, racing driver.
He continued,
“If I ever want to go, it won’t be just to be at Ferrari, it will be because I see the opportunity to win. You shouldn’t be guided only by emotions. You have to go to Ferrari because you feel it’s the right place to go,”
—Max Verstappen, racing driver.
This position contrasts with the common view held by many drivers who see Ferrari as the ultimate dream team. Legends like Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton have often expressed their admiration for the Italian marque, despite Ferrari struggling to regain its dominant form in recent seasons.
Current Contract and Commitment to Red Bull
Max Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull extends through 2028, yet his future at the team has seemingly become flexible. His agreements have been effectively handled on one-year renewal terms, reflecting some uncertainties due to fluctuating team performance. Before the summer break, Verstappen publicly confirmed his intention to remain with Red Bull for the 2026 season, but beyond that, his options remain open depending on competitive conditions.
Ralf Schumacher Sees Verstappen as an Ideal Match for Ferrari
Ralf Schumacher, former Formula 1 driver and brother of Ferrari’s most successful driver Michael Schumacher, believes Max Verstappen would be an excellent fit at Ferrari. He pointed out how the passionate Italian fans have already embraced Verstappen, as demonstrated by their enthusiastic cheers following his dominant win at the Italian Grand Prix.
On Sky Germany‘s F1 podcast, Schumacher shared his observations about the crowd’s reaction and Verstappen’s potential future with Ferrari:
“What I found so fascinating was that before the race, Verstappen’s father had already made some comments about Ferrari. And then, after the victory, I admit, I unfortunately had to leave. I mean, on television, I don’t know, you were there, but the whole crowd was already cheering for Max Verstappen and shouting Max Verstappen’s name. So, I somehow have the feeling that the Italians can already imagine that the fastest man on the track at the moment will soon be driving a Ferrari.” —Ralf Schumacher, former F1 driver and analyst
He also discussed how Verstappen’s personal circumstances could align well with Ferrari’s current environment. With Verstappen managing a family life that includes two children, Schumacher believes the fit with the team’s culture and leadership could be positive:
“Of course, Papa Verstappen knows full well that this is suddenly an issue for him too, and I have to be honest and say that I don’t know how you felt, but when I see Fred Vasseur as a person today and also what Ferrari embodies there, Max in his current situation with his family, two children, somehow I have the feeling that they could be a great fit.” —Ralf Schumacher, former F1 driver and analyst
Scenarios for Verstappen’s Future Beyond 2026
Ferrari currently secures the services of both Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton for the 2026 season. However, should Red Bull fail to maintain its competitiveness under the new regulations, Verstappen may reconsider his options for 2027 and beyond. Given Ferrari’s status and history, the team stands as a viable alternative for Verstappen if he sees an opportunity to pursue more championship victories.
The next few seasons will be critical in shaping Verstappen’s long-term trajectory, with performance supremacy likely being the decisive factor, in line with his stated conditions for any potential move to Ferrari.
