Max Verstappen Linked with Transfer as Hamilton-Ferrari Exit Speculation Grows
As the 2025 Formula 1 season progresses, significant changes appear to be brewing behind the scenes, especially surrounding Max Verstappen’s future. The Dutch driver, who has been the dominant force in the sport in recent years, could be on the verge of a major move as speculation intensifies regarding his commitment to Red Bull Racing beyond this season.
One of the driving forces behind this uncertainty is Honda’s departure from its engine supply partnership with Red Bull. The Japanese manufacturer has played a key role in powering Red Bull to multiple championships since the partnership began in 2019. However, that collaboration is set to conclude at the end of this season. From 2026 onward, Red Bull will switch to using its own in-house power units developed under the Red Bull Powertrains banner, in association with Ford. This significant shift aligns with the new engine regulations coming into effect that year, which focus more on sustainability and electrical power.
Amid this transition, Verstappen’s loyalty to Red Bull has come into question. Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko recently admitted that there’s a possibility Verstappen could look for opportunities elsewhere, especially if Red Bull is unable to deliver a consistently competitive package under the new rules. One team reportedly keeping a close eye on the situation is Aston Martin. The British outfit has shown increasing ambition in recent seasons and is set to partner with Honda starting in 2026.
Fueling the speculation further, Honda president Koji Watanabe has expressed interest in reuniting with Verstappen in the future. In a recent interview with Dutch publication De Telegraaf, Watanabe praised Verstappen and emphasized Honda’s intention to remain a competitive force in F1 alongside Aston Martin. “First of all, we will do everything we can to help him win his fifth world title this year,” Watanabe said, acknowledging Verstappen’s current goals with Red Bull. “But if the opportunity arises in the future, we would like to work with him again.”
These comments are being interpreted by many as an open invitation for Verstappen to join Aston Martin when Honda officially returns as a power unit supplier in 2026. Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull technically runs until 2028, but ongoing tensions within the team and the impending engine transition could prompt him to reconsider his long-term future.
Meanwhile, another seismic shift in the driver market could involve seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. The British driver shocked the paddock earlier this year by announcing a move from Mercedes to Ferrari starting in 2025. However, new rumors suggest that his Ferrari stint may be shorter than expected. Some insiders believe Hamilton could part ways with the Scuderia if the team struggles to deliver a car capable of challenging for the title.
If both scenarios play out — Hamilton departing Ferrari and Verstappen leaving Red Bull — it could spark one of the most dramatic reshuffles in modern F1 history. Aston Martin, with their deep pockets, solid technical base, and Honda’s backing, could emerge as a top destination for Verstappen, while Ferrari may suddenly find themselves in need of another star driver.
For now, Verstappen remains focused on securing his fifth consecutive world championship with Red Bull. However, as the F1 landscape continues to evolve and new regulations loom on the horizon, his long-term future is anything but certain. With teams preparing for the 2026 regulation overhaul, the groundwork is already being laid for potential blockbuster moves that could redefine the pecking order of Formula 1 for years to come.
