Max Verstappen is reportedly leaning toward remaining with Red Bull for the 2026 Formula 1 season, despite ongoing speculation about his future. This potential decision comes amid mixed performances by Red Bull and significant changes within the team’s leadership.
Current Speculation Surrounding Verstappen’s 2026 Plans
For over a year, Max Verstappen’s next move in Formula 1 has been the subject of widespread debate and uncertainty. The four-time world champion was linked to Mercedes last year after Lewis Hamilton’s unexpected departure from the Silver Arrows team. Now, following a less dominant 2025, Verstappen’s long-term alignment is again under scrutiny.
Red Bull struggled to address various issues that hampered their performance toward the end of the previous season. This slump resulted in Verstappen falling to third place in the championship, a position far from his usual championship-contending dominance. Compounding this, Red Bull dismissed team principal Christian Horner, raising questions around stability that could influence Verstappen’s decision to stay or depart.
Mercedes has emerged as the primary contender for Verstappen’s signature, particularly as their current drivers, George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, approach contract expirations at the end of the year. Meanwhile, Aston Martin, though a potential suitor, appears less likely to secure Verstappen’s services given their existing driver commitments.
Why Aston Martin’s Prospects for Verstappen Look Slim
Aston Martin’s 2026 driver lineup with Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll seems firmly in place for next year. The team recently made strategic moves by appointing Adrian Newey as managing technical partner and securing an engine supply deal with Honda, signaling their ambition for future success.
Yet, insider Andrew Benson, a veteran BBC Formula 1 journalist, suggests Aston Martin is not currently a realistic option for Verstappen. Benson points out,
“Aston Martin already have two drivers committed for 2026,”
adding that Alonso’s contract expires next season, but Stroll’s position is secure, as he is the team owner’s son.
Since the team structurally revolves around Stroll, any Verstappen move there would require reaching an agreement with Alonso. Benson further explains,
“Given that Alonso gets his first chance to drive an Adrian Newey-designed car next year, the chances of him being especially amenable to that are low. Any pay-off in such circumstances would have to be very large indeed, one can imagine.”
Likelihood of Verstappen Staying at Red Bull or Moving to Mercedes
Despite the shifting landscapes in Formula 1, Verstappen is currently seen as most likely to remain loyal to Red Bull. Benson notes,
“My sense from little bits of information from here and there is that at this stage Verstappen is more likely to stay at Red Bull than not. But of course that could change.”
If Verstappen decides to part ways with Red Bull, Mercedes stands as the most viable destination due to the availability of seats and the team’s reputation. However, the final decision remains unsettled as Verstappen weighs his options amid Red Bull’s internal challenges and competitive pressures.
What Verstappen’s Decision Means for Formula 1
The possibility of Verstappen continuing with Red Bull offers a degree of stability for a team eager to regain its dominant form. Conversely, a switch to Mercedes would disrupt the current competitive dynamic and reshape future championship battles. With Verstappen’s contract decisions still fluid, the 2026 season remains a turning point for leading teams and the sport’s overall landscape.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Max Verstappen a millionaire?
A. As of December 2024, Verstappen’s net worth is around $200 million, based on Celebrity Net Worth’s report. His income comes from endorsements, investments, and a well-paying Formula 1 contract. Before 2020, his earnings were lower than top Formula 1 drivers.
