The Formula 1 world is reeling from a bombshell revelation that has set tongues wagging across the paddock. Just days after the 2025 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, where Max Verstappen showcased his trademark brilliance despite a controversial penalty, reports have surfaced of a jaw-dropping offer from Aston Martin to lure the four-time world champion away from Red Bull. This leaked deal, rumored to be worth a staggering $300 million over three years, could reshape the sport’s landscape and spark a seismic shift in the driver market.
Italian publication La Gazzetta dello Sport broke the news, claiming that Aston Martin, backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), is prepared to make Verstappen the highest-paid driver in F1 history with an annual salary of $100 million from 2026 to 2028. The Silverstone-based team, already making waves with their state-of-the-art facilities and the recent signing of legendary designer Adrian Newey, sees Verstappen as the final piece in their championship puzzle. With Honda’s power unit deal kicking in for 2026, the prospect of reuniting Verstappen with Newey and Honda—the architects of his Red Bull dominance—is tantalizing.
Verstappen’s current Red Bull contract runs until 2028, but whispers of exit clauses tied to performance have fueled speculation. Red Bull’s struggles in 2025, coupled with internal tensions and a car that’s no longer the grid’s benchmark, have cast doubt on their ability to keep the Dutch superstar. At Jeddah, Verstappen’s frustration was palpable as a five-second penalty for an off-track move cost him a potential victory to McLaren’s Oscar Piastri. His cryptic post-race comments, hinting that “people can’t handle the full truth,” only added to the intrigue surrounding his future.
Aston Martin’s ambition is clear. PIF, which owns a 20% stake in Aston Martin Lagonda and sponsors the team via Aramco, is reportedly eyeing a full takeover from owner Lawrence Stroll. Landing Verstappen would be a statement of intent, positioning the team as title contenders under the 2026 regulations. However, the deal isn’t without hurdles. Aston Martin remains committed to Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, both under contract for 2026, and team principal Andy Cowell has stayed tight-lipped, focusing on improving the car’s performance.
Verstappen, for his part, has downplayed the rumors, insisting his focus is on Red Bull and their 2025 title fight. Yet, with only eight points separating him from championship leader Lando Norris, the allure of a fresh challenge—and a record-breaking payday—might be hard to resist. As F1 braces for the next chapter in this saga, one thing is certain: Verstappen’s decision could redefine the sport’s power dynamics. Will he stay loyal to Red Bull, or will Aston Martin’s green dream team steal the show? The F1 world waits with bated breath.
