Amidst all the question marks over Red Bull’s competitiveness, speculation is rife once again about the future of Max Verstappen. After a particularly disappointing weekend in Bahrain, it seems increasingly difficult for the Dutchman to defend his title. The question is whether he is actually looking for a new employer for the upcoming seasons. However, in the run-up to the Saudi Arabian GP, he wants to downplay all the rumors.
“Hopefully it will go a bit better here than in Bahrain,” Verstappen said during the official FIA press conference in Jeddah. ‘More fast corners and better asphalt’ should help Red Bull get a bit closer to championship leader McLaren. “Hopefully this weekend will be somewhere between Japan and Bahrain.” Where Verstappen crossed the finish line first in Suzuka, he had to settle for a mediocre sixth place in Sakhir. The reigning world champion has now slipped to third place in the championship.
Following the Bahrain Grand Prix, Red Bull’s top advisor, Helmut Marko, expressed his fear that Max Verstappen might leave the team. “No idea,” responded the 27-year-old driver when asked about this comment. “I just keep working and want to keep improving the car. Bahrain was disappointing for all of us, but I am determined to make the car perform better. We are still struggling with the balance. I have no idea to what extent we can improve that here, but hopefully, we will fare a bit better on this track.”
Verstappen Certainly Welcome at Aston Martin
Sky Sports commentator David Croft asked Verstappen again about a possible Red Bull exit. The Dutchman quickly dismissed further speculation. “You focus on the commentary, and I’ll focus on the driving,” he responded with a wink. “Everyone is talking about it, except me. I am just busy with the car. I am satisfied at Red Bull, but I am not satisfied with the car. That undoubtedly applies to more drivers. We just have to persevere.”
Finally, Fernando Alonso, who was also present at the same press conference, was asked about the rumors surrounding Verstappen’s possible departure. After all, the Limburger has already been linked to Aston Martin. Would the Spaniard welcome him in Silverstone? “Absolutely, but the chance is very small that it will happen,” he grinned.
