Formula 1, Verstappen towards Red Bull farewell? Aston Martin attempts the coup of the decade

The world of Formula 1 could be rocked by a real earthquake. Max Verstappen, four-time world champion and Red Bull’s star man, is reportedly seriously considering leaving the team at the end of the season. A resounding decision. It seemed unthinkable until a few months ago, but it is now taking shape in an increasingly tense climate within the Austrian team.

Weighing on this would be the recent off-circuit events involving team principal Christian Horner and, above all, the uncertainty related to the team’s technical future. The regulatory change planned for 2026, with a switch from Honda engines to power units produced in-house by Red Bull, does not entirely convince the Dutchman. Test results have not lived up to expectations. Max, who has already experienced difficult years in his career, does not seem willing to risk his supremacy.

In spite of a contract valid until 2028, Verstappen has exit clauses on his side that would allow him to free himself as early as the end of 2025. And while Ferrari and McLaren remain at the window, armored by agreements with their current drivers, two names are making their way to the Dutch phenomenon’s future: Mercedes and Aston Martin.

While on the one hand Toto Wolff has shown interest, he now seems to be leaning toward the young talent Kimi Antonelli. On the other, Aston Martin appears increasingly determined to get serious. The link with Honda and the possible future presence of Adrian Newey could be a very strong temptation for Verstappen, who would thus find again two pillars of his success in Red Bull. To make room for Max, one between Alonso and Lance Stroll will have to step aside. And if Daddy Stroll really wants to bring his team back to the top, the sacrifice may not be so unthinkable.

The market has just begun, but the Verstappen-Aston Martin axis could soon become the big deal of 2026.