Photo credit: www.autosport.com
Max Verstappen’s Future: Aston Martin Speculation Grows After Bahrain GP
Following a less-than-stellar performance by Red Bull at the recent Bahrain Grand Prix, speculation has intensified regarding Max Verstappen’s potential move to another team by 2026.
Reports indicate that Aston Martin may be extending a lucrative offer to Verstappen, valued at over £1 billion for a five-year agreement.
While Verstappen is officially under contract with Red Bull until the end of 2028, it’s important to recognize that Formula 1 contracts generally contain performance clauses that can allow either party to reassess the arrangement. It might seem surprising for a driver currently positioned just eight points behind the championship leader—and who has already secured a win this season—to be contemplating an exit, but such scenarios are not without precedent in the sport.
A Shift in Strategy
Any potential move would likely be premised on long-term strategic goals rather than immediate outcomes. Red Bull, now preparing to develop its own engine for the upcoming season with input from Ford, might face challenges as Honda redirects its support to Aston Martin. Notably, Aston Martin’s car will be designed under the expertise of Adrian Newey, a figure whose absence seems increasingly challenging for Red Bull to manage.
However, integrating Verstappen into Aston Martin’s lineup would complicate matters, as both current drivers, including Lance Stroll—who is linked to the team’s ownership—are contracted through 2026. The chance of displacing Stroll appears minimal.
Fernando Alonso Comments on the Rumors
When asked about the rumors surrounding Verstappen’s move during a recent FIA press conference in Jeddah, Fernando Alonso confirmed, “I don’t think so, as I have a contract for next year.” He added, “But I see the rumors… This shows the project we’re in, the future that this team has.”
Alonso, who extended his contract last year, mentioned that while his current tenure with Aston Martin is significant, he envisions himself contributing to the team even after his driving career concludes. “If that means I can win a world championship while I’m not behind the wheel, I will still feel very proud of the project,” he stated.
The two-time world champion also expressed his openness to having Verstappen as a teammate, albeit with skepticism about the likelihood of such a pairing occurring.
Alonso’s Journey with Aston Martin
Alonso’s initial stint with Aston Martin was marked by impressive performances, including a near victory at the Monaco Grand Prix, which was ultimately thwarted by challenging weather conditions. However, in the latter parts of the season, the team has struggled to maintain that competitive edge and found itself entrenched in the midfield.
The pivotal query remains whether Newey can effectively transform Aston Martin’s operational strategies and technical methodologies, as confirmed by team principal Andy Cowell during the press conference. Newey’s focus on the team’s 2026 aspirations suggests significant developments on the horizon, although the exact order of competition remains speculative at this stage.
Sitting alongside Alonso during the pre-Jeddah press conference, Verstappen addressed the swirling rumors with a hint of frustration, stating, “A lot of people are talking about it—except me.”
Source
www.autosport.com