Aston Martin’s turbulent 2024 season has pushed the team down the standings, with its performance a shadow of last year’s promising start. Despite having the seasoned Fernando Alonso fighting tooth and nail for every point, former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has issued a bold verdict: ditch Alonso and go all-in for Max Verstappen.
The Silverstone squad’s struggles contrast sharply with Verstappen’s resilience. Even as Red Bull battles its own slump, the three-time world champion continues to deliver stellar results, proving his mettle. Montoya suggests that Aston Martin, set to benefit from Honda power units in 2026 and fresh from acquiring design mastermind Adrian Newey, should make Verstappen their priority.
“Fernando is brilliant, no doubt, but he’s not a long-term plan,” Montoya said. “Aston Martin has everything in place—Honda engines and now Newey. Why not take the next step and bring in Max? But to make that happen, they need to offer him a deal that’s at least as attractive as Newey’s, if not better.”
Aston Martin’s current edge lies in its vast resources, thanks to team owner Lawrence Stroll. Montoya points out that Verstappen’s arrival could not only enhance the team’s performance but also boost its financial prospects. The Colombian racing legend believes that securing Verstappen is the golden ticket to transforming Aston Martin into a championship-winning force.
“With Verstappen, you’re investing in a long-term future,” Montoya explained. “You’re securing the best driver on the grid—someone who’s already dominating the championship. The better he does, the more value he brings. It’s not just about winning; it’s about the team’s financial worth skyrocketing.”
However, Verstappen’s fierce loyalty to Red Bull could be a major hurdle. The Dutchman has shown unwavering commitment to his long-time team, despite Red Bull’s ongoing struggles this season. But Montoya hints that if the current slump continues, Verstappen might just be tempted to explore other opportunities—especially with a revitalized Aston Martin project promising success and stability.
Whether Aston Martin takes this gamble or sticks with their current lineup remains to be seen, but one thing’s certain: Montoya’s words have ignited a debate on whether the Silverstone outfit is truly ready for a bold move to reclaim its spot among F1’s elite.
