The situation within the team is far from ideal. After dominating the early years of the current regulations, things have taken a downturn since last year. Not only have on-track performances declined, but tensions inside the garage have also intensified. Verstappen appears closer than ever to leaving the team that nurtured him, especially given some significant offers from rival teams.
The Dutch driver and Red Bull once seemed like an inseparable duo. However, after securing his fourth consecutive drivers’ title, Max Verstappen appears to be looking for a way out. The tensions have been running high for over a year now, starting with the Christian Horner controversy, continuing with Adrian Newey’s departure, and culminating in the underwhelming performance of the RB20.
Despite holding second place in the championship this year, the car’s competitiveness does not seem to match that of its direct rivals. Additionally, if the ongoing rumors in the paddock are to be believed, Red Bull is facing serious difficulties in developing its 2026 power unit as Honda prepares to leave.
All of this has prompted Max Verstappen to explore other options. Initially, reports suggested an offer exceeding $1 billion from Aston Martin, though the team later denied it. However, the British outfit based in Silverstone still appears to be the most likely destination for the Dutchman, where he could reunite with the legendary engineer Adrian Newey, with whom he has worked throughout his F1 career.
Former driver Juan Pablo Montoya has also weighed in, speaking to Vision4Sport: “I think Aston Martin will make him an offer he absolutely cannot refuse. I believe he might stay with Red Bull for one more year, giving them a final chance while waiting for Newey to complete his first season of ‘apprenticeship.’”
“Adrian won’t be able to work miracles immediately. It’s a completely new group, and everyone needs time to settle in. They will certainly improve, but I don’t think they will win right away.”
“If Red Bull struggles at the start of 2026, I wouldn’t be surprised if Max Verstappen leaves by the third race to join Aston Martin. If I were him, that’s where I’d go. Mercedes could be a good option too, but Aston Martin would be the most logical choice: Adrian Newey and Honda—everything he has already won with.” – the former Formula 1 driver concluded ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, which is set to take place this weekend at the Suzuka circuit.
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