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Max Verstappen’s $50 Million Dilemma: Why He Chose Red Bull Over Mercedes

Virgilio Machado by Virgilio Machado
August 16, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 2 mins read
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Max Verstappen’s $50 Million Dilemma: Why He Chose Red Bull Over Mercedes

SPA, BELGIUM - JULY 27: Max Verstappen of the Netherlands driving the (1) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB21 on track during the F1 Grand Prix of Belgium at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps on July 27, 2025 in Spa, Belgium. (Photo by Alex Bierens de Haan/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202507282036 // Usage for editorial use only //

Max Verstappen’s Shocking Loyalty to Red Bull: Is a $50 Million Loss Behind His Decision?

In a move that has set the motorsport world ablaze with speculation, Max Verstappen has firmly quashed rumors of a dramatic switch to Mercedes, opting instead to remain loyal to Red Bull Racing. But why would a driver of his caliber choose to stay put amidst swirling whispers of better opportunities? Enter Juan Pablo Montoya, the illustrious seven-time grand prix victor, who has thrown a jaw-dropping theory into the mix: what if Verstappen’s decision was influenced by a staggering $50 million loss in potential salary?

The 2025 Formula 1 season has not been kind to Verstappen, who currently finds himself a staggering 97 points adrift from Drivers’ Championship leader Oscar Piastri. With McLaren now emerging as the dominant force in F1, the question looms: could Verstappen’s faltering performance have significantly impacted his bargaining power? Montoya believes this very predicament could have cost the Dutch driver a monumental payout, prompting him to reconsider his options.

“Last year, when Max was on top of the world as a World Champion, negotiating with him would have required a wallet-busting $100 million,” Montoya revealed, adding fuel to the fire of speculation. “This season is a different story. He’s in a struggling car, and that could mean he’s lost out on a jaw-dropping $50 million in negotiations.” The implications are staggering—was Verstappen cornered into staying with Red Bull due to a financial reality check?

As whispers of Verstappen’s potential move to Mercedes intensified, it was reported that his Red Bull contract included a performance-related exit clause. According to insiders, had Verstappen found himself languishing in fourth place or lower by the summer break, he could have triggered that escape hatch. However, with Verstappen locked into third place before the Hungarian Grand Prix, that scenario quickly faded away.

In an exclusive interview, Verstappen himself addressed the swirling rumors with a surprising degree of candor. “It’s time to stop all the rumors,” he declared, emphasizing his unwavering focus on improving Red Bull’s performance rather than entertaining thoughts of switching teams. “I’ve always been clear about staying. The talks about the car and future ideas have always been my priority.”

While Verstappen’s commitment to Red Bull is commendable, the financial implications of his decision raise eyebrows across the paddock. With new chassis and engine regulations on the horizon for 2026, and Red Bull gearing up to become an engine manufacturer in partnership with Ford, the stakes have never been higher. Could Verstappen’s loyalty be rooted in a fear of financial loss, rather than pure team spirit? The racing world waits with bated breath as this saga unfolds.

As the drama continues to unravel, one thing remains clear: Max Verstappen’s future in Formula 1 is as unpredictable as the sport itself. Will he rise from the ashes of this tumultuous season, or will the financial repercussions dictate his path forward? Only time will tell, but for now, the spotlight remains firmly on Verstappen and his bold choice to stand by Red Bull, a decision that could very well be worth millions.

Tags: 2023-formula-1-season2025-formula-1-seasonarrow-mclarenjamarr-chases-mercedes-maybachJuan Pablo Montoyamax-verstappen-enOscar PiastriRed Bull Racing
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