Verstappen Could Become Highest-Paid Formula 1 Driver with Proposed Deal

Amid a challenging season with Red Bull Racing, Max Verstappen has reportedly received a substantial offer from Aston Martin, totaling €264 million, in an attempt to secure his move away from the Austrian team.

The Dutch racer, with only one victory in four races this season, has encountered increasing difficulties both on and off the track.

While Verstappen has been reserved regarding his future, sources indicate that Aston Martin is discreetly developing a three-year agreement with the potential to significantly alter the Formula 1 landscape.

Speculation about this potential shift gained momentum during the Jeddah race weekend, where Verstappen addressed the rumors.

“Many individuals are discussing my future—except for myself,” he commented. “Currently, my focus is on enhancing the car’s performance, not contemplating a departure from Red Bull.”

The proposed arrangement is reportedly supported by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, which holds a 20% stake in Aston Martin and sponsors the team via the Saudi oil firm Aramco.

This same fund was instrumental in facilitating Cristiano Ronaldo’s transfer to Al-Nassr with a €200 million annual contract.

If it materializes, the agreement would potentially make Verstappen the highest-earning driver in Formula 1 history.

Verstappen’s existing contract with Red Bull extends until 2028 but is understood to contain escape clauses that could permit an earlier exit.

Despite his four world championship titles, Verstappen’s future with Red Bull appears uncertain, stemming from persistent dissatisfaction with car performance and alleged internal strife within the team.

Tensions escalated after the Bahrain Grand Prix, where Verstappen was surpassed by Oscar Piastri and the McLaren team.

Starting seventh and concluding in sixth place, Verstappen faced considerable criticism for his lackluster showing.