Red Bull's Star Driver’s Formula One Future Up in the Air
With the 2025 Formula One season starting soon, rumors surround four-time World Champion Max Verstappen about his future in the sport. Although Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull Racing runs until 2028, the driver has been connected to numerous other teams this month. Not only has he been linked to other teams, but Verstappen has also gone on record, claiming he is closer to the end of his career than the beginning. At only 27 years old, Verstappen is on top of his game with years left to keep racing and competing; however, whether it’s at Red Bull or even happening is still up in the air.
Max Verstappen is now linked to two other teams besides Red Bull Racing: Mercedes and Aston Martin. Although fans want to see Verstappen at McLaren or Ferrari, the likelihood of either team dropping their current drivers is highly unlikely. With Mercedes losing Lewis Hamilton to Ferrari, the team needs another strong driver alongside George Russell. Although Mercedes signed rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the young driver, with big shoes to fill in taking Hamilton’s spot, Verstappen could quickly fill that role. The most significant issue with the Dutch driver to Mercedes would be the team dynamic since Russell and Verstappen had a rocky relationship during the 2024 season, with disputes on and off the grid.
On the other hand, a move to Aston Martin is much more realistic for the four-time World Champion. With Adrian Newey, the ex-Chief Technology Officer of Red Bull Racing, now working at Aston Martin, Verstappen could find a comfortable spot on the team. Verstappen has always shined with Newey’s designs and expertise, so the move would ensure he continues to compete well. Aston Martin will soon be looking for a new driver since Fernando Alonso will likely retire from Formula One in 2025 after 24 years of racing. Due to this, Max Verstappen could quickly swoop in and take Alonso’s spot.
However, as Max Verstappen has been vocal about his opinions against numerous FIA rules, his retirement from Formula One could also be possible soon. Last season was difficult for him, with him winning far fewer races than in previous seasons. Verstappen’s negative attitude towards the FIA could also hinder his success with all the new rules and consequences, potentially pushing him closer to leaving Formula One. With numerous other options for the reigning World Champion, Max Verstappen’s future is still in the air, ensuring the driver has a long career with any strong team he could want if he continues racing. Only time will tell where Verstappen’s future will be on or off the Formula One grid.
