According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Max Verstappen is seriously considering leaving Red Bull at the end of 2025. A major twist so early in the season. Tensions with Christian Horner and doubts about Red Bull’s future power unit project are driving this reflection.
Trouble behind the scenes
Four-time world champion Max Verstappen isn’t having the same comfortable ride in 2025. The once-dominant Red Bull team is facing cracks, both on and off the track.
Reports suggest Verstappen may trigger an exit clause in his contract, which currently runs until 2028. The issues?
- A strained relationship with team principal Christian Horner
- Uncertainty surrounding the in-house engine for 2026, meant to replace Honda
Aston Martin or Mercedes?
Two teams are reportedly leading the race to sign him:
- Aston Martin, with backing from Saudi Arabia’s PIF sovereign wealth fund
- Mercedes, where Toto Wolff remains interested, despite confidence in Russell and rookie Antonelli
The situation could echo other seismic F1 moves. Think Hamilton’s bold switch to Mercedes in 2013, which changed the sport forever.
2026: Verstappen’s main concern?
The new 2026 regulations loom large. Verstappen reportedly fears getting stuck with an underperforming engine.
Red Bull is building its own power unit—a bold project, but one with unproven results so far. If it doesn’t deliver, Verstappen may jump ship before it’s too late.
Personally, I wonder if leaving the most dominant team too soon is worth the gamble.
What about you? Should Verstappen bet on Red Bull or take the leap to Mercedes or Aston?