Aston Martin is not arranging a £1 billion deal for Max Verstappen – not that Verstappen would be concerned with the money as he “only cares about winning.”
This is the view of Aston Martin simulator driver Daniel Juncadella, who cannot understand why anyone “in their right mind” would believe that such a move could occur.
Max Verstappen joining Aston Martin?
Despite Verstappen’s long-term contract with Red Bull lasting until the conclusion of the F1 2028 season, the Dutch driver has encountered numerous inquiries regarding his future amid Red Bull’s challenges. The speculation about a possible team change has been heightened by internal tensions within Red Bull and the ever-changing landscape of Formula 1 team performance and driver availability.
Last year, he had connections to Mercedes, with Toto Wolff stoking that speculation while looking for a substitute for Lewis Hamilton, and earlier this year, an Aston Martin rumor surfaced. The intrigue surrounding Verstappen’s next career step has only grown as teams prepare for the regulation overhaul arriving in 2026, which could shift the competitive balance on the grid.
As reported by the Daily Mail, the Silverstone team was devising a £1 billion investment strategy to acquire the four-time World Champion, although Gazzetta dello Sport subsequently asserted that Verstappen’s salary would be $100 million annually in a three-year contract. Such figures, if true, would make it one of the most lucrative contracts in Formula 1 history.
However, Aston Martin “firmly rejected” the speculation to PlanetF1.com. The team emphasized that there was no truth to the reports linking them with a mega-money move for Verstappen, further calling into question the credibility of the rumor.
Juncadella expresses his confusion that anyone could truly believe such a shift would occur, considering Verstappen continues to win races with Red Bull and might still secure the World title for a fifth consecutive season, while Aston Martin is still in development. Verstappen remains at the pinnacle of the sport, having dominated recent seasons and maintaining a formidable lead in both races and championship standings.
The team has enlisted design icon Adrian Newey to lead the development of their brand-new F1 2026 car, with Juncadella noting that the atmosphere among the team is positive. Newey’s addition to Aston Martin’s technical group has generated excitement and renewed optimism within the team, particularly as Formula 1 prepares for major regulatory changes.
But still not enough to convince someone like Verstappen to switch teams.
“I believe it’s premature, you know?” he responded to the Nachez YouTube channel when questioned about the team’s prospects in 2026. “And as I mentioned, since I haven’t tried 2026 in the simulator.”
“I mean, what I know for certain is that there’s no atmosphere of negativity, fear, or uncertainty.” Nothing, nothing, disregard [the media].
“There are things that should be considered with some skepticism, you know?”
“It’s similar to that, in the end, when a rumor unexpectedly emerges, and that’s akin to the Verstappen, Aston Martin.”
“I mean, considering the situation, who in their right mind would believe that Max Verstappen would want to join Aston Martin, even if they offered him £1 billion?”
Do you believe the child is concerned about money? His only concern is victory. “Without a doubt, the team for Max is Red Bull.”
Red Bull team boss Christian Horner was asked about the exit clause in Verstappen’s contract, which is said to permit him to depart the team if he finds himself outside the top three in the Drivers’ Championship at a specific stage of the season.
Horner, however, emphasizes that a driver’s choice involves more than just a document, it also includes their bond with the team. He underlined that Verstappen’s loyalty and connection to the Red Bull outfit are built on more than contractual obligations.
“Clearly, contracts for drivers include performance clauses, and during certain times of the year, typically around summer, situations arise,” he said to Sky F1.
“I believe a relationship with a driver should extend beyond the terms outlined on a document.” It must center on their ease within the team, their trust in the team, and there has never been a conversation with Max about being elsewhere; his dedication has been unwavering, and I believe he remains true to his statements with you all.
“For us, it’s about figuring out how we can enhance ourselves and become better instead of relying on a document.”
“I often believe that in life, if you need to consult a contract, you’re facing an issue.” “It’s centered on the bond between a driver and their confidence in one another.”
Verstappen discussed his Formula 1 future with ESPN, acknowledging that he wouldn’t race “forever.” The 26-year-old remains focused but realistic about the longevity of his career.
He responded, “I’m under contract until 2028, so definitely until that time.”
However, he stated: “I will continue as long as I find joy in it and I can connect with the sport in my own way. Certainly, this sport has evolved significantly throughout the years, as long as I still find enjoyment in it.”
“Appreciate it, and let’s say, accepting it’s fine to move on from the family too.”
Verstappen’s partner Kelly Piquet welcomed their daughter, Lily, in the days leading up to the Miami Grand Prix. The birth of their child marked a significant personal milestone for the Dutch driver, who has spoken openly about balancing the demands of elite competition with family life.
While Verstappen remains open to future possibilities, he continues to reiterate that Red Bull is his priority — particularly while the team remains at the top. The speculation around Aston Martin, fueled by ambitious plans and prominent hires like Newey, underscores the high-stakes competition among F1 teams as they prepare for a transformative era in 2026.
But for now, Verstappen appears firmly rooted in Red Bull, focused on winning, not chasing the highest paycheck — and certainly not entertaining rumors that, according to insiders like Juncadella, belong in the realm of fantasy.
