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Montoya Casts Doubt on Verstappen’s Red Bull Future: “I’d Be Amazed If He’s Still There in 2026”

Max Verstappen’s long-term future with Red Bull Racing is once again under the spotlight, with former Formula 1 star Juan Pablo Montoya adding fuel to the speculation. The Colombian, a seven-time Grand Prix winner, has gone on record to say he would be “amazed” if the reigning world champion remains with the Milton Keynes-based outfit in 2026.

Verstappen has been the dominant force in Formula 1 over the past few seasons, but early 2025 has brought fresh challenges. While he managed to secure a convincing win in Japan, a disappointing weekend in Bahrain exposed cracks in Red Bull’s current form and raised questions about their continued dominance. This has reignited rumors that Verstappen, despite being under contract until 2028, could choose to leave the team earlier than expected.

Reports suggest the Dutch driver has a release clause in his contract that could allow him to exit Red Bull if he drops below third in the Drivers’ Championship a scenario that team advisor Helmut Marko admits could become relevant around the summer break. The clause, combined with the political tension and structural shifts within the team, has led many to believe Verstappen may be weighing his options.

Speaking with Plejmo, Montoya didn’t mince words: “I’ll be amazed if Max is driving for Red Bull next year.” He believes that the ongoing instability within the team, coupled with the allure of other top contenders, makes a departure increasingly likely.

Mercedes has long been linked with Verstappen, especially given that both George Russell and rising star Kimi Antonelli are out of contract at the end of the year. While Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff made clear efforts to lure Verstappen in the past, he has recently softened his stance, stating that he’s no longer actively pursuing the four-time world champion. Still, the opportunity remains open, and Montoya believes Mercedes could offer Verstappen the best shot at continued success.

“There are two paths Max can take,” Montoya said. “Does he want to continue winning championships? Or is he more interested in maximizing his income, even if it means fewer titles?”

Montoya argues that if Verstappen’s top priority is performance and adding to his legacy, he should push Mercedes to make room for him. “If he wants to win, he’ll go to Toto and make his case. That’s the team that gives him the best shot.”

However, there’s also the possibility of a move to Aston Martin. With Adrian Newey the mastermind behind many of Red Bull’s successful cars—now involved in Aston’s 2026 project, the team is shaping up to be a major force in the coming seasons. Combined with billionaire Lawrence Stroll’s financial resources, Aston Martin could offer Verstappen an enticing mix of potential and high rewards.

“If Max wants to make a lot of money and still maybe fight for wins, Aston Martin would be the logical choice,” Montoya added.

As the 2025 season unfolds and the driver market begins to take shape, Verstappen’s next move remains one of the biggest questions in the paddock. Whether he remains loyal to Red Bull or chooses to embark on a new chapter with Mercedes or Aston Martin could redefine the balance of power in Formula 1 for years to come.