Max Verstappen F1 career strategy is under close scrutiny as the Dutch driver prepares for what many believe could be a defining era in Formula 1. Former team principal Guenther Steiner has weighed in, insisting Verstappen’s calculated approach will help him avoid the career missteps that have hindered Fernando Alonso’s journey through the sport.
Steiner draws a clear comparison between Verstappen’s current position in Formula 1 and that of Alonso in past years. At 28, Verstappen already boasts four world championships and continues to be a formidable presence on the track. Despite a narrow defeat last season—where he finished just two points behind Lando Norris and Red Bull ended third in the constructors’ race—Verstappen’s determination remains undimmed. Steiner sees these moments not as setbacks, but as evidence of Verstappen’s resilience and tactical thinking.
Alonso’s Career: A Cautionary Tale
In an illustration of what Verstappen seeks to avoid, Fernando Alonso’s career path is often cited as a cautionary tale among Formula 1 insiders. Alonso, a two-time world champion, has found himself in far less competitive machinery for much of the past decade. Now driving for Aston Martin, his team has seen a dip in performance since their 2023 high point. The upcoming anniversary marking two decades since Alonso’s last title, and the fact that his most recent race victory dates back to 2013, offer a stark picture. Since achieving 32 career wins, his stints with McLaren, Alpine, and now Aston Martin have resulted in only nine additional podium appearances.
Expert Opinion: Verstappen’s Support and Market Value
On the Red Flags podcast, Guenther Steiner expressed strong faith in Verstappen’s wisdom and support system:
“I think that Max will be in the right car,”
?Guenther Steiner, former team principal
“He’s surrounded by intelligent people who will ensure he continues his success.”
?Guenther Steiner, former team principal
Steiner points out that the people guiding Verstappen are committed to advancing his career and making strategic moves when necessary. He also highlighted Verstappen’s exceptional value to any team:
“Whoever has the leading car wants Max Verstappen,”
?Guenther Steiner, former team principal
He hinted that Verstappen’s contract allows flexibility; if Red Bull cannot deliver a front-running car, moves could be made to position him elsewhere.
2026 F1 Rules and the Potential for Big Changes
The arrival of sweeping 2026 technical regulations has the entire Formula 1 community speculating about shifts in team performance. Verstappen has already committed to Red Bull for the 2026 season, but there is mounting talk that he may consider switching teams if Red Bull fails to provide a title-contending car. With rumors swirling around Mercedes as a top candidate for Verstappen’s talents, the next phase of his career is filled with possibilities.
This moment echoes crucial decisions from Alonso’s career, where being in the wrong car at the wrong time resulted in lost championships and missed opportunities for victory. Verstappen and his advisors are keenly aware of these pitfalls and appear determined to avoid repeating them.
What the Next Chapter Could Bring
As Formula 1’s regulations evolve and competition intensifies, the spotlight is firmly on Verstappen and his F1 career strategy. Questions persist: Will he stand by Red Bull, trusting in the team to remain at the front, or will he look to new partners such as Mercedes should circumstances change? With so much at stake, Verstappen’s future moves will shape not only his legacy but also the competitive balance of the entire sport. Fans and experts, including respected figures like Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher, will be watching closely as Verstappen navigates the challenges ahead, striving to cement his place among the Formula 1 greats while steering clear of the traps that ensnared Alonso.
