Reigning F1 world champion Max Verstappen will reportedly reject Aston Martin, even if he manages to activate the exit clause in his Red Bull contract. Verstappen’s Red Bull deal runs until 2028, but he will be free to leave if he finishes outside of the top three in 2025.
There has been growing speculation about Verstappen’s future at Red Bull, with as many as four teams credited with an interest in the Dutchman.
Billionaire Lawrence Stroll’s Aston Martin has emerged as the frontrunner in the four-time world champion’s pursuit. Stroll’s outfit has arguably the greatest designer in F1 history in Adrian Newey, and all the riches in the world. Yet, the No. 1 is reportedly set to snub the English team, owing to one big uncertainty.
Max Verstappen to Reject Aston Martin in 2026
For the first time in their history, Red Bull will create their own power unit, with some assistance from Ford. Doubts persist over their ability to create a unit capable of keeping pace with McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes.
Capitalising on the uncertainties about Red Bull’s power unit capabilities and the contractual loophole, Aston Martin emerged as a potential suitor for Verstappen. In April, OE24 reported that Lawrence Stroll had prepared a five-year deal worth a massive £1 billion for the 27-year-old.
Newey’s comeback to the F1 paddock hits Verstappen: ‘It takes some getting used to’:
“Max admitted it felt unusual seeing Adrian Newey dressed in Aston Martin colours after his return to the F1 paddock last week.” pic.twitter.com/8Y87ZfGhBk
— Ana 🦁 (@maxvcalloway) May 30, 2025
However, despite the obvious financial pull, Verstappen is reportedly unwilling to commit to Aston Martin.
As per GP Fans, Verstappen is unsure how much performance Adrian Newey will be able to unlock after the new regulations come into play in 2026. The Belgium-born driver and his team view the 14-time drivers’ and 12-time constructors’ title-winner’s impact on Aston Martin’s 2026 car as a big question.
If rumours are true, Stroll and Aston Martin will have to wait at least until 2027 to get the four-time F1 world champion in their green car.
How Has Max Verstappen Performed in the 2025 F1 Season?
McLaren duo, Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, have lit up the 2025 F1 season, winning seven races between them. While Piastri has won five races, Norris has clinched two wins. The remaining two races have gone to the Red Bull of Max Verstappen.
Verstappen claimed his first win of the 2025 F1 season in Japan, completing the Grand Prix in 1:22:06.983. He finished 1.423 seconds ahead of title rival Norris. Many hailed Verstappen’s Japanese GP performance, under treacherous conditions, as one of the greatest in F1 history.
Verstappen bagged his second win of the campaign in Imola. It was a dominant drive from the champion, as he finished the race in 1:31:33.199. Norris once again finished second, trailing his rival by 6.109 seconds.
Yes!!! Brilliant weekend 🙌 Incredibly proud of everyone @redbullracing, celebrating the 400th race of the team with this win 💪 pic.twitter.com/8oCFwzzhB3
— Max Verstappen (@Max33Verstappen) May 18, 2025
After the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix, Verstappen is third in the Drivers’ Championship rankings with 137 points. Piastri is leading with 186 and Norris is sitting in second place, trailing him by 10 points.
