Max Verstappen’s Future: Why Aston Martin Could Be the Ideal Choice
Former Red Bull head of operations, Richard Hopkins, believes that Max Verstappen should consider Aston Martin as his next team, rather than sticking with the top contenders in Formula 1. The Dutch driver’s future with Red Bull Racing remains uncertain, even after a strong comeback during the 2025 season.
Earlier this summer, amidst Red Bull’s struggles, Verstappen was rumored to be eyeing a switch to Mercedes. However, following the departure of Christian Horner in July and a promising start under new team principal Laurent Mekies, the four-time world champion decided to remain with Red Bull for at least another season. This choice allows Verstappen to evaluate the competitive landscape in 2026 when new technical regulations are set to be implemented, enabling him to make a strategic decision about his future.
"Max will definitely be exploring his options," Hopkins shared with Express Sport, in partnership with Mr. Gamble. "Ferrari could be one of those options. While many are drawn to Ferrari for its history and prestige, if they were consistently winning championships, that would change the motivation for drivers—it’s not just about the allure, but about joining a winning team."
However, Hopkins emphasizes that Aston Martin presents a unique opportunity. He highlights the confidence in Adrian Newey’s abilities—not just in designing exceptional cars but also in cultivating strong team dynamics. "Adrian has a knack for building a culture of belief, which is crucial for success. My own achievements at Red Bull were largely due to his influence," he stated.
As Newey continues to shape the future of Aston Martin, Hopkins suggests that Verstappen would be a perfect fit. "If you asked Adrian about his current driver lineup, he might express the desire for a more dynamic pairing. A talent like Verstappen, alongside a promising young driver, could create a formidable team."
Hopkins believes that with Newey’s expertise in navigating regulatory changes—an area where he has excelled for over three decades—Aston Martin could emerge as a competitive force. "If they can produce a solid car next year and outperform expectations, Max will definitely want to be part of that success."
In conclusion, as Verstappen evaluates his future in F1, Aston Martin could very well be the team that aligns with his ambitions for victory and innovation. The combination of his talent and Newey’s engineering prowess could pave the way for an exciting new chapter in his career.
