Aston Martin chief responds to Max Verstappen rumours as Toto Wolff watches...

Aston Martin chief responds to Max Verstappen rumours as Toto Wolff watches…read more

Aston Martin team principal Mike Krack has sparked further speculation about the potential signing of Max Verstappen, adding to the growing rumors that the British Formula 1 team could be targeting the Dutch driver. The buzz around Verstappen’s future intensified after the announcement that Adrian Newey, Red Bull Racing’s legendary designer, will be joining Aston Martin next season. This significant move by the team has set the stage for even bigger ambitions, with Aston Martin’s owner Lawrence Stroll continuing to push for major improvements and investments.

Aston Martin, currently preparing to use Honda power units starting in the 2026 Formula 1 season, has been clear about its goal of becoming a major contender at the top of the grid. The team’s recent performances have already shown significant improvement, but Stroll’s ambitions go far beyond the mid-field. He envisions a championship-contending team, and the acquisition of Newey is a major step in that direction. Newey, known for his innovative car designs and playing a pivotal role in Red Bull’s dominance, is considered one of the most influential figures in the sport. His move has led to rumors that Verstappen, Red Bull’s star driver, could follow suit.

Currently, Verstappen is under contract with Red Bull until 2028. However, with Newey leaving and reports suggesting the Dutch driver may be unsettled by the designer’s departure, there is increasing speculation that Verstappen’s future at Red Bull may not be as secure as previously thought. Internal tensions within the team have been reported, and the driver’s relationship with Red Bull’s management is said to be strained. These factors, combined with Aston Martin’s rise and Stroll’s seemingly limitless budget, have fueled rumors that Verstappen might consider leaving Red Bull before his contract ends.

Mike Krack, in a press conference ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, addressed these rumors, openly stating that Aston Martin would welcome Verstappen with open arms. “The door for Max Verstappen is always open, for everything,” Krack remarked, signaling that the team is more than willing to make a serious bid for the reigning world champion if the opportunity arises.

Krack went on to emphasize the credibility of Aston Martin’s long-term project, particularly after securing the services of Newey. “When you manage to appoint Adrian Newey, first of all, it is proof that the project is credible, that the whole vision of Lawrence is not just words,” he said. “It is real action that we can take confidence from as a team.”

The arrival of Newey at Aston Martin is a statement of intent, reinforcing the idea that the team is no longer just an underdog but one that is serious about competing at the highest level. Krack confidently stated that the team’s aspirations have changed. “This is not an underdog team like it used to be in the past,” he said. “It is a team that should be confident it can do it. But also, you now have a completely different approach with partners and drivers. Signing Newey opens a lot of doors for the future.”

Lawrence Stroll’s ownership of Aston Martin has already transformed the team into a more competitive outfit, with significant investments in facilities, personnel, and drivers. The addition of Newey is seen as a major coup, but adding a driver of Verstappen’s caliber would be an even bigger statement of intent. While Verstappen’s current contract keeps him with Red Bull for the next few years, Stroll’s financial power and ambitious vision mean that a potential move to Aston Martin cannot be ruled out, especially if Verstappen’s relationship with Red Bull continues to deteriorate.

Meanwhile, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff is also keeping a close eye on developments, as Aston Martin’s rise poses a serious threat to his team’s position on the grid. Wolff, who has been watching Stroll’s moves with interest, is aware that the addition of Verstappen and Newey could significantly shift the balance of power in Formula 1.

With Aston Martin aiming to challenge for titles in the near future, the next few seasons will be crucial for the team. The signing of Adrian Newey is already a game-changer, but if they can also secure Max Verstappen, it would signal a new era for the British outfit. While Verstappen remains with Red Bull for now, the situation is fluid, and the possibility of him joining Aston Martin in the future is becoming more plausible by the day.