Aston Martin is making headlines in Formula 1 with an audacious plan to sign Max Verstappen, reportedly involving a staggering £1 billion package. This potential move reflects team owner Lawrence Stroll’s unyielding ambition to transform the Silverstone-based team into a championship-winning powerhouse.
A Game-Changing Vision
Stroll has already made waves by securing Adrian Newey, F1’s most renowned car designer, in a lucrative £20 million-a-year deal, which includes equity in the team. Now, pairing Newey’s technical brilliance with Verstappen’s driving mastery is the next step in a bold vision to elevate Aston Martin to the pinnacle of F1.
“Adrian is determined to make a success of himself yet again and wants to work with the best,” an insider revealed.
Adding Verstappen would solidify Aston Martin’s intent to not just compete but dominate, especially under the sweeping 2026 regulation changes.
The Financial Stakes
Currently earning £50 million annually at Red Bull, Verstappen’s salary would need to be shattered to bring him onboard. Aston Martin is reportedly prepared to offer an unprecedented £200 million per year, along with equity in the team, to secure his services.
This level of investment underscores Stroll’s willingness to go all-in on his vision for the team. Jefferson Slack, Aston Martin’s managing director of commercial and marketing, has reportedly pitched Verstappen’s arrival to potential investors, suggesting that Verstappen’s presence would add immense value to the team’s brand and performance.
Challenges to Overcome
Verstappen is under contract with Red Bull until 2028, a team where he has achieved historic success, including four consecutive Drivers’ Championships. However, Aston Martin’s massive financial package and long-term vision might be enough to sway him, particularly with new regulations and Red Bull’s engine partnership with Ford looming.
A lot will depend on the performance of Red Bull’s 2026 power unit, which could open the door for Verstappen to explore other options if the team falters.
Driver Dynamics and Newey’s Role
Adrian Newey’s concerns about the current driver lineup at Aston Martin may have fueled the Verstappen speculation. Questions surrounding Lance Stroll’s competitiveness and Fernando Alonso’s age make Verstappen an ideal candidate to lead the team into its next phase.
“Newey wants to work with the best,” said a source close to the team. Verstappen’s arrival would address any concerns about driver quality and create a dream partnership between the sport’s top designer and top driver.
Ferrari and Mercedes on High Alert
If Aston Martin lands Verstappen, it could disrupt the sport’s current hierarchy. Ferrari, Mercedes, and Red Bull would all feel the ripple effects of this seismic shift, with Aston Martin emerging as a title contender alongside them.
“This would mark the beginning of a new era,” an insider suggested, highlighting the potential power shift in F1.
Official Denials and Speculation
Aston Martin has officially denied Jefferson Slack’s alleged comments about targeting Verstappen, reaffirming their commitment to Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso, who are under contract until at least 2026. However, the rumors underscore the team’s long-term ambitions.
What’s Next?
Whether Verstappen ultimately makes the switch or not, Aston Martin’s intent is clear: they are positioning themselves as serious challengers for the F1 crown. With Newey on board, a deep-pocketed owner, and a growing infrastructure, Aston Martin is gearing up for a transformative era.
If Verstappen does join Aston Martin, it would not only revolutionize the team but also rewrite the competitive landscape of Formula 1. The stakes have never been higher.