Four-time world champion Max Verstappen has been hailed as the best driver on the Formula 1 grid, but Gerhard Berger warns that Red Bull’s struggles could push him to look elsewhere.
The former Ferrari and McLaren driver, who raced in Formula 1 across three decades, believes Verstappen’s talent is undeniable—but 2024 proved his supremacy isn’t just about having the best car.
“Verstappen is the best driver, no question about it,” Berger told the media.
“But before, the best driver was in the best team. In the meantime, however, Max is pulling the chestnuts out of the fire.”
After dominating the field in 2022 and 2023, Verstappen faced a much tougher challenge in 2024, going months without a win before rallying in the second half of the season to secure his fourth consecutive championship.
With Red Bull no longer the dominant force, Berger suggests Verstappen’s loyalty to the team could soon be tested.
Could Verstappen Leave Red Bull? Berger Sees a 2025 Crossroads
Verstappen is under contract with Red Bull until 2028, but that hasn’t stopped rumors of a potential exit. Teams like Aston Martin are reportedly monitoring the situation, hoping to lure the Dutchman away if Red Bull fails to regain its dominant edge.
Berger sees 2025 as a crucial season—one that could determine whether Verstappen stays loyal to Red Bull or seeks a new challenge elsewhere.
“Now it will be exciting to see if Red Bull can return to its former strength, or if Verstappen will continue to have difficulties winning.”
“Then he will have to consider whether he is still in the right team.”
Verstappen has repeatedly expressed his happiness at Red Bull, but the reality of a competitive slump could change everything. If 2025 starts with more struggles, the door could open for a blockbuster move that would shake up the F1 grid.
Can Verstappen Make It Five Titles in a Row?
For now, Verstappen’s focus remains on securing a fifth consecutive F1 title, but his ability to do so depends entirely on Red Bull’s 2025 package.
With the season opener in Melbourne just weeks away, all eyes will be on Red Bull’s early form. If Verstappen finds himself in a prolonged fight rather than dominant control, expect the transfer rumors to intensify—especially if rival teams sense an opportunity.
Will Red Bull bounce back, or will 2025 mark the beginning of the end for Verstappen’s time in Milton Keynes?
One thing is certain—the battle for F1 supremacy has never been more intense.
