Aston Martin’s Billion-Pound Gamble: Inside the Race to Sign Max Verstappen

April 24, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

Aston Martin has become one of the most intriguing storylines in this year’s Formula 1 season, with bold ambitions that few saw coming. The team has stunned the paddock by positioning itself as a serious contender for Max Verstappen’s signature — a move that would shake the sport to its core.

Securing the reigning world champion would be a massive coup, especially considering Red Bull’s current dominance and the staggering financial gap between teams. We’ve taken a closer look at the details behind Aston Martin’s rumored offer, Verstappen’s current situation, and how a potential switch could redefine the future of Formula 1.

£976 Million Blockbuster Offer

Aston Martin has reportedly prepared a record-breaking £976 million deal to lure Max Verstappen away from Red Bull. The package includes salary, bonuses, and a potential equity stake — making it one of the most lucrative contracts in sports history.

Read the full article

Game-Changing Ambitions

The team isn’t just aiming to compete — they’re aiming to dominate. Aston Martin wants to rebuild its identity around Verstappen and become a title-winning force by the time new regulations hit in 2026.

Equity Stake Included

The proposed deal may grant Verstappen partial ownership of the team. That would elevate him from superstar driver to strategic stakeholder — a rarity in the modern Formula 1 landscape.

Official Denials, Unofficial Buzz

Andy Cowell — Michael Potts F1 / Shutterstock.com

Aston Martin has denied making the offer, but insider reports suggest discussions are underway. Public denials may serve as cover while negotiations continue in private.

Contract Clause Escape Route

Verstappen’s Red Bull contract runs through 2028, but includes a rumored clause allowing him to leave early if the team underperforms — possibly as early as this season’s summer break.

£48.75M Current Salary

Verstappen is currently earning £48.75 million per year with Red Bull. Aston Martin’s offer would significantly exceed this, establishing a new standard for elite driver salaries.

Adrian Newey Joins Aston Martin

Legendary F1 designer Adrian Newey has signed with Aston Martin on a £19.5 million annual contract. His presence boosts the team’s credibility and technical firepower.

Red Bull’s Internal Challenges

Red Bull Ring — Jay Hirano / Shutterstock.com

Red Bull has faced mounting issues off-track, from performance inconsistencies to internal political rifts. These problems may be testing Verstappen’s patience for the first time in years.

Lawrence Stroll’s Championship Vision

Photo: Michael Potts F1 / Shutterstock.com

Aston Martin owner Lawrence Stroll is determined to turn the team into a world champion. Verstappen is the cornerstone of that ambition — the driver Stroll wants to build around.

Verstappen’s Red Bull Legacy

f1 car, Max Verstappen — Michael Potts F1 / Shutterstock.com

With four world titles under his belt, Verstappen is a Red Bull icon. But with uncertainty mounting and a new challenge beckoning, the idea of change is becoming more viable.

George Russell in the Shadows

Geroge Russell — Jay Hirano / Shutterstock.com

Should Verstappen leave, Mercedes remains a wildcard — but George Russell is positioned as their long-term future. Verstappen’s arrival would immediately reshape that narrative.

Endurance Racing Talks in Play

Early conversations between Aston Martin and Verstappen about their endurance racing program hint at a broader relationship. It could open new doors beyond Formula 1.

Comparison to Hamilton

Sir. Lewis Hamilton — Jose Breton- Pics Action / Shutterstock.com

Verstappen’s influence now rivals Lewis Hamilton’s, both in success and commercial power. A switch to Aston Martin could cement his status as F1’s most valuable driver.

No Move Yet — But the Stage Is Set

As of April 2025, Verstappen remains with Red Bull. But with cracks showing, Newey on board at Aston Martin, and nearly £1 billion in play — the foundations for a seismic move are laid.