Reigning four-time world champion Max Verstappen is reportedly weighing a staggering offer from Aston Martin, according to a former Formula 1 star. Despite achieving monumental success with Red Bull—four titles and 63 Grand Prix wins over a decade—the Dutchman’s future has sparked intense speculation. While Verstappen has publicly dismissed rumors of a switch, insiders suggest the British team’s ambitious project, backed by Lawrence Stroll’s resources, has caught his attention.
As the 2025 season unfolds, could Verstappen trade Red Bull’s dominance for Aston Martin’s bold vision? One F1 legend insists the answer might surprise fans.
Formula 1 star's bombshell revelation
Ex-Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert has dropped a bombshell: Max Verstappen is “heavily considering” Aston Martin’s reported £1 billion proposal. Herbert, a three-time Grand Prix winner, argues the Dutch star is strategically eyeing the team’s 2026 potential. “Max is no fool,” he told CasinoApps.com. “He’s going to want to place himself where he can win championships. If Red Bull falters and Aston Martin shows promise, I’d be shocked if Max wouldn’t bite.”
Herbert points to Aston Martin’s aggressive moves—poaching Red Bull’s Dan Fallows and Adrian Newey, plus securing a Honda engine partnership from 2026—as game-changers.
“With Adrian and Honda, Aston Martin could be the place to be,” he added. “Racing drivers don’t stay loyal out of sentiment. Max is there to win. Contracts don’t mean squat if performance dips.”
Why Aston Martin’s pitch could tempt Max Verstappen
Max Verstappen’s Red Bull contract runs through 2028, but clauses reportedly allow exits if the team fails to deliver title-worthy cars. Aston Martin’s allure lies in its long-term vision: Newey’s genius paired with Honda’s engines could redefine their competitiveness under 2026’s new regulations.
However, the team’s current form is a hurdle. In 2024, Aston Martin languished near the grid’s rear, frustrating Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll. While Newey’s focus is on 2026, the 2025 car remains an evolution of its underwhelming predecessor.
The Bigger Picture: Verstappen’s Legacy vs. Risk
For Verstappen, the dilemma is balancing loyalty against legacy. Red Bull has been his fortress, but Aston Martin offers a chance to cement his status as an F1 icon who transformed an underdog. Herbert’s take? “Max doesn’t work like that. It’s all about winning.”
If Aston Martin’s 2026 blueprint convinces him, Max Verstappen could follow in Lewis Hamilton’s footsteps—betting on a team’s future over present glory. For now, the ball’s in Red Bull’s court to keep their star convinced they’re still his best shot.