The Formula 1 rumor mill is in overdrive, and this time, it’s Max Verstappen’s future that’s under the spotlight. With persistent speculation linking the four-time world champion to a potential move away from Red Bull, Verstappen was quizzed on the possibility of teaming up with Fernando Alonso at Aston Martin.
His response? Cryptic, but not dismissive.
💬 Verstappen on Alonso and Sainz:
“In the future, it’s very difficult to say what will happen. I’m very happy to have been able to race with Fernando and Carlos.”
That non-committal answer is enough to keep the speculation alive—especially as Verstappen’s Red Bull contract includes exit clauses tied to the team’s performance.
Could Verstappen Leave Red Bull? The Signs Are There
Verstappen is contracted to Red Bull until 2028, but his long-term commitment isn’t set in stone. His deal contains performance-related escape clauses, and with Red Bull suffering a late-season slump in 2024, the pressure is mounting.
🔹 Red Bull’s RB20 struggled with balance issues, allowing McLaren to steal the Constructors’ Championship.
🔹 Helmut Marko has warned that Red Bull must improve in 2025 to avoid losing Verstappen.
🔹 Aston Martin has reportedly told sponsors that a deal for Verstappen could be in the works.
With Mercedes, McLaren, and Aston Martin all monitoring the situation, Red Bull is facing a critical season to prove it can still provide Verstappen with a title-winning machine.
Why Aston Martin? The Newey-Honda Factor
Should Verstappen choose to exit Red Bull, Aston Martin stands out as a logical landing spot—and not just because of its recent form.
✅ Adrian Newey Connection – Verstappen’s trusted designer at Red Bull, rumored to be open to a fresh challenge.
✅ Honda Power for 2026 – Red Bull’s engine partner until 2025 will supply Aston Martin from 2026 onward.
✅ Big Ambitions – Aston Martin has shown huge investment, big-name hires, and a clear roadmap to title contention.
Would Alonso Move Aside for Verstappen?
The biggest roadblock to Verstappen’s Aston Martin move isn’t money or performance—it’s Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll.
🚨 Both drivers are contracted until 2026.
🚨 Stroll’s father, Lawrence, owns the team.
🚨 Alonso has repeatedly stated he wants to fight for a title with Aston Martin.
Would Aston Martin push out a two-time champion to land Verstappen? Would Alonso willingly step aside for the Dutchman? Would Stroll accept being moved?
There are more questions than answers, but if Verstappen becomes available, expect big decisions at Silverstone.
A Spain Connection: Verstappen’s Respect for Alonso and Sainz
Verstappen didn’t just dodge the Aston Martin question—he also took a moment to praise Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz for their impact on Spanish motorsport.
💬 Verstappen on Alonso and Sainz:
“With Fernando winning the championships [in 2005 and 2006], he already made a big push, and then of course it continues with Carlos as well.”
Having secured his first-ever F1 victory in Spain back in 2016, Verstappen has a special connection to the country and its passionate fanbase.
The Verdict: Verstappen Holds the Power—And the Entire Grid Knows It
Right now, Max Verstappen is the kingmaker of the driver market. If Red Bull falters in 2025, teams like Mercedes and Aston Martin will be ready to pounce.
Could we see Verstappen in green, partnered with Alonso in an all-time great F1 superteam?
For now, Verstappen isn’t revealing his cards—but one thing is certain: 2025 could be the most unpredictable season yet.