Is Max Verstappen Leaving Red Bull for Aston Martin?

The speculation surrounding Max Verstappen’s future has intensified following Red Bull’s underwhelming performance at the Bahrain Grand Prix. With a lucrative offer from Aston Martin reportedly worth over £1 billion over five years, could we see the Dutch driver switching teams in 2026?

The Billion-Pound Offer from Aston Martin

While Verstappen is contracted with Red Bull until 2028, performance clauses in all F1 contracts make a move possible. The most enticing offer on the table comes from Aston Martin, a team that seems to be capturing Verstappen’s attention.

Red Bull’s decision to build its own engine for next season, with Ford investment and branding, coupled with Honda’s transfer of allegiance to Aston Martin, could make this move appealing for the championship contender. However, displacing one of ‘s current drivers, both contracted for 2026, presents a challenge.

The Role of Adrian Newey and Aston Martin’s Future Prospects

The potential move would involve joining forces with Adrian Newey, whose influence Red Bull appears to miss dearly. But this would not come without competition, as both current Aston Martin drivers have contracts for 2026. The likelihood of Lance Stroll being displaced is slim.

Fernando Alonso, when asked about Verstappen’s potential move during the FIA press conference in Jeddah, expressed his support for the idea but acknowledged its improbability. He also hinted at his long-term commitment to Aston Martin and his desire to contribute to the team’s success beyond his racing career.

The Impact of Adrian Newey on Aston Martin’s Performance

Team principal and CEO Andy Cowell confirmed in Jeddah that Newey’s focus would be on the 2026 project, with the 2025 car serving as a testing ground for Aston Martin‘s simulation tools. The team’s position in the 2026 pecking order remains uncertain, but the potential impact of Newey’s expertise cannot be ignored.

As Verstappen sat next to Alonso during the pre-Jeddah press conference, he fueled the rumors by expressing his interest in a move, while denying any personal involvement in the speculation. The future of F1’s most exciting driver remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the world champion is attracting attention from all corners of the paddock.