Three-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has found himself at the center of blockbuster rumors linking him to a jaw-dropping $1 billion offer from Aston Martin. The Dutch phenom, fresh off securing his fourth consecutive title, has long hinted at exploring motorsport beyond F1—but is he really ready to abandon Red Bull?
While whispers of a career-defining deal swirl, Verstappen and Red Bull boss Christian Horner have slammed the brakes on speculation, calling it pure fiction.
Max Verstappen’s response to Aston Martin switch
The drama erupted after reports claimed Aston Martin, backed by billionaire Lawrence Stroll, had tabled a mammoth $1 billion proposal to lure Max Verstappen away from Red Bull. The deal, allegedly spanning the remainder of his racing career, sent shockwaves through the paddock. But when pressed about the rumors, Verstappen didn’t just dismiss them—he laughed them off.
“It’s a lot of money,” Verstappen admitted with a smirk. “Honestly, when I read that, it was the first time that I saw something like that. The only contact that I had with them was about GT3 for this year. That’s it. There’s not much to say really, because there isn’t anything.”
The 26-year-old’s curt rebuttal underscores his loyalty to Red Bull, where he’s raced since 2016. Despite signing a contract extension until 2028, speculation about his future spiked following internal tensions within the team and Aston Martin’s aggressive recruitment strategy. The British squad recently poached Red Bull’s legendary designer Adrian Newey—a $38 million coup aimed at turbocharging their title ambitions.
Horner, however, remains unshaken. “I know you guys [the media] have all got column inches to fill over the winter period, but a billion-dollar driver would be an eye-wateringly large amount of money,” he quipped. “Max is very happy in the environment he’s in. He’s grown up in the team and has a great relationship with everyone he works with.”
For Max Verstappen, the priority is clear: performance over paychecks. “It’s down to us to provide a competitive car,” Horner stressed, hinting that Verstappen’s stay hinges on Red Bull’s ability to maintain dominance.
The Dutchman’s blistering start to 2024—winning the season’s first two races—proves the partnership still thrives. Yet his shock retirement at last year’s Australian Grand Prix, which snapped a nine-race win streak, serves as a reminder that even titans stumble.
While Aston Martin’s rumored bid adds spice to the F1 rumor mill, Verstappen’s focus remains fixed on rewriting history. With a fifth title in his crosshairs and a Red Bull seat firmly under him, one thing’s certain: $1 billion can’t buy loyalty—or speed.