Max Verstappen claimed his fourth consecutive F1 world championship in 2024. After dominating the previous two seasons, the Dutchman had to fight off the challenge of Lando Norris. However, there have been rumours about his departure from Red Bull.
Verstappen has only driven for a team in the Red Bull family, having made his debut for Torro Roso. So moving away would be a big step for Verstappen. Red Bull chief advisor Helmut Marko, however, has dismissed any Verstappen exit rumours.
Helmut Marko confident Max Verstappen will stay at Red Bull
Max Verstappen has been linked with a move away from Red Bull. A rumour was the Dutchman would join Aston Martin to link up with Adrian Newey. There are also reports Verstappen could be concerned over the 2026 car. Helmut Marko has confirmed Verstappen does have performance clauses in his contract, but the 81-year-old isn’t worried.
The Austrian said: “There are performance clauses. But let’s assume that we are not really at a disadvantage in terms of the engine. A gap of one or two tenths is manageable with Max. That is all speculation. We want the 5th world championship title in a row, that is what we are fully focused on. We didn’t manage that with Vettel.”
“I love this team… now it’s about keeping number one on the car long-term”
More from @Max33Verstappen on his bumper contract extension #F1 https://t.co/Ez2TNo7N1N
— Formula 1 (@F1) March 3, 2022
Red Bull is expected to struggle in 2026 since they will be creating their own engine for the first time. This could drive Verstappen into leaving but he is contracted until 2028 with the Milton Keynes outfit.
Where could Max Verstappen go?
Should Max Verstappen leave Red Bull, Aston Martin is a very strong contender. Verstappen would like to link up again with Adrian Newey, the mastermind behind Max’s title-winning cars. They will also be using a Honda powertrain, which Verstappen is used to.
BREAKING: Adrian Newey to join Aston Martin from 2025!#F1 @AstonMartinF1 pic.twitter.com/S90qYCipfp
— Formula 1 (@F1) September 10, 2024
Another possible option could be Mercedes. If George Russell doesn’t turn out to be the team leader Mercedes hoped, they could look elsewhere. They have pinned their hopes on youngster Kimi Antonelli and would want a strong partner alongside him. However, Mercedes CEO Toto Wolff did pour cold water on the deal.
Any team on the grid would want a driver of Max Verstappen’s calibre. However, giving him better tools than what Red Bull can offer will be a big challenge. If Verstappen does leave Red Bull, who do you think he will join? Leave in the comments below.
