Aston Martin has tabled an irresistible offer for Max Verstappen — a move that could shake up F1’s future from 2026 onward.
What if Formula 1’s biggest power move is still ahead of us? Max Verstappen, Red Bull’s golden boy and reigning world champion, has reportedly received a jaw-dropping offer to join Aston Martin F1 starting in 2026 — a deal insiders are calling impossible to ignore.
Although no official confirmation has been made, Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko acknowledged that Aston Martin made contact — a move said to be heavily driven by legendary designer Adrian Newey, who’s rumored to be inching closer to a new chapter with the British team.
The Verstappen camp — led by his father Jos and trusted advisor Raymond Vermeulen — has chosen silence when asked about whispers of a €1 billion package spread over five years, including salary, bonuses, and even equity in the team. Silence that speaks volumes.
Locked In – But for How Long?
On paper, Verstappen is tied to Red Bull until the end of the 2028 season. But multiple sources suggest there are exit clauses in his contract, which could be triggered as early as this summer — especially if Red Bull can’t deliver a car capable of defending his crown.
Former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya thinks the time to move might be now — or at least very soon.
“Max is being offered something irresistible by Aston Martin. Maybe not for 2026, but 2027 could be the sweet spot. He could give Red Bull one more shot, while Adrian settles in with his new team,” Montoya told reporters. “But if Red Bull stumbles early, I wouldn’t be surprised if Max has already signed elsewhere before the third race.”
Why Aston Martin Makes Sense
Aston Martin, now partnered with Honda for 2026 and beyond, is building the kind of structure that wins championships: deep pockets, technical firepower, and ambition to burn. With Newey potentially joining, they’d have everything Verstappen needs — and everything he’s ever won with.
“Mercedes might be an option, sure,” Montoya adds. “But Aston makes the most sense. You’ve got Adrian. You’ve got Honda. You’ve got the right vision. If I were Max, that’s where I’d go.”
2025: Red Bull’s Last Dance?
According to Vermeulen, Verstappen is already bracing for a tough 2025 season. Red Bull’s current car — the RB21 — has reportedly reached its development ceiling.
“Max will have to make the difference himself. It’ll be a fight. A proper fight,” Vermeulen said. “Of course, Max loves dominating races by 10 or 20 seconds. But I think this season will challenge him in a way he enjoys — even if he doesn’t say it out loud.”
Red Bull gave Verstappen his wings. But in the new era of F1, with regulation resets and power unit shifts, Aston Martin might just be offering him his throne. If the rumors are true, Max won’t just be choosing a team. He’ll be choosing his legacy.
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