During the winter break, Max Verstappen was linked to a sensational transfer to Aston Martin. A contract worth one billion and shares in the company were supposed to lure the Dutch champion to the competition. He quickly dismissed these rumors. However, experts doubt whether Verstappen will actually spend his entire Formula 1 career at Red Bull; what about a transfer to Ferrari?
In early 2024, Max Verstappen was frequently mentioned as the possible successor to Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes. After Hamilton’s sudden departure and internal unrest at Red Bull, a transfer seemed more realistic than ever. However, in a recent podcast from Sky Sports, former driver and analyst Ralf Schumacher stated that Mercedes is not the most obvious next challenge for Verstappen. “We have to wait and see what happens,” he said. “Mercedes still has the problem that they don’t know which direction to go with the development of the car. At least that’s how it seems, but it’s still early in the season.”
Verstappen in Ferrari Colors?
Not only Max Verstappen’s willingness plays a role in a possible transfer; the situation within Mercedes itself is also important. “If both drivers get along well, then it could be that Toto Wolff doesn’t want to sacrifice anyone,” Schumacher said. “And then there’s also the financial aspect. Max Verstappen is not exactly cheap. If you have two drivers who work well together, that could simply be the better choice.”
The much-discussed mega transfer to Aston Martin remains an option, according to Schumacher. However, the German points out that multiple teams are vying for the four-time world champion. Ferrari should not be ruled out; does the allure of the Scuderia also work on Max Verstappen? “The more I think about it, the more logical it would be for Verstappen to go to Aston Martin,” says Schumacher. “Perhaps it’s a bit far-fetched and depends largely on how long he stays with Red Bull, but Verstappen could also go to Ferrari. You can’t rule out that option.”
