Red Bull Confirm Talks to Sign Aston Martin Star ...read more

Red Bull Confirm Talks to Sign Aston Martin Star Amid Verstappen Re …read more

Red Bull Racing has confirmed holding discussions with a top Aston Martin driver as part of contingency planning for Max Verstappen’s potential departure.

Team boss Christian Horner acknowledged that exploratory talks took place earlier this year with an “Aston Martin star,” though he stressed these were routine conversations given the fluid nature of driver contracts and always-open negotiations in Formula 1.

The revelation comes after Verstappen’s situation sparked intense speculation, fueled by Aston Martin’s recent engineering coup—securing designer Adrian Newey—and significant financial backing from the Saudi Public Investment Fund . With Verstappen’s Red Bull deal running through 2028 and featuring performance-based exit clauses, Red Bull isn’t leaving key paddock discussions unaddressed .

Despite mounting rumors—including a sensational $470 million offer allegedly presented by Aston Martin—Red Bull maintains confidence in keeping Verstappen. Horner emphasized the team is committed to delivering a competitive car and described the Aston Martin approach as “normal paddock dialogue” rather than a sign of imminent change .

Red Bull advisor Dr Helmut Marko has also downplayed the rumors, affirming Verstappen’s contract and loyalty, telling Sport Bild, “we are confident that we can give Max a good car… [he] will be a Red Bull driver in 2026”

While Verstappen continues to focus on securing further titles, Red Bull’s admission of proactive discussions sends a clear message: they are strategically preparing for any future scenario—even as they remain optimistic about retaining their four-time world champion.