Max Verstappen’s potential move to Aston Martin could reshape the F1 landscape as Johnny Herbert backs a bold investment strategy.
Johnny Herbert Urges Stroll to “Pay Whatever It Takes” for the Dutchman.
Johnny Herbert believes Aston Martin should do everything possible to sign Max Verstappen for 2026. The former F1 driver is convinced that adding the four-time world champion could turn the Silverstone-based team into the next dominant force on the grid.
“It gets really exciting if the Saudis get more involved with Aston Martin,” Herbert said. “If you have the money, you should spend whatever it takes to bring Max Verstappen on board. Right now, he is by far the best driver on the grid. Even when McLaren is slightly quicker, he still manages to outperform them.”
Herbert sees a real opportunity for Aston Martin to rise if they invest smartly over the next year. “If they build the right car, they could become the team to beat. But it is a tough road ahead. If Verstappen and Adrian Newey are both at their best, beating them will be incredibly hard. Still, nothing is guaranteed.”
Verstappen’s future could open up sooner than expected, according to Herbert. “Max will be thinking about where the best opportunities are. Helmut Marko hinted at an exit clause that could be triggered this season, and that could be the perfect timing for Verstappen.”
“I hope he chooses the right team so he can stay at the very top for the foreseeable future. We want to see battles between him and young stars like Oscar Piastri for the championship. That is exactly what the sport needs.”
Herbert believes the Aston Martin project could be powerful, but questions whether Lance Stroll should remain alongside Verstappen. “Lawrence Stroll is a smart businessman. He is doing everything he can to turn Aston Martin into a race-winning team.”
“If he strengthens ties with Saudi Arabia and signs the best driver, the project could truly take off. I do not see Saudi Arabia taking full control of Aston Martin, though. Lawrence is a true motorsport enthusiast. Maybe he would sell 50 percent or even less, but I am not sure.”
When it comes to Lance Stroll, Herbert is more cautious. “Lance has been underwhelming in recent races while Fernando Alonso keeps delivering. The car is not great right now, but Aston Martin will need to seriously think about who would be the best teammate for Verstappen if they want to reach the very top.”
“Of course, Lawrence will want to keep his son. Lance earned his place in Formula 1. He has stood on the podium, led races and scored plenty of points. If you give him a strong car, he might raise his game. But he needs to be more consistent if he wants to stay part of a top team.”
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Verstappen key to Aston Martin’s bold F1 masterplan Verstappen key to Aston Martin’s bold F1 masterplan
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