Max Verstappen, just crowned Formula 1 champion for the fourth consecutive time in 2024, finds himself at the center of inflated rumors linking him to an incredible offer of 1.2 billion dollars from Aston Martin. Although the potential deal would break records and redefine contracts in F1, former world champion Jacques Villeneuve has warned Verstappen against a move that could jeopardize his winning legacy.
A temptation of several billions
Reports suggest that Aston Martin, under the ambitious leadership of Lawrence Stroll, are ready to offer Verstappen a contract worth more than $1.2 billion. The staggering package reportedly includes an annual salary of up to $200 million—an unprecedented figure in motorsports. The Dutchman’s meteoric rise and dominance have made him the sport’s biggest asset, but Villeneuve questions the Silverstone-based team’s ability to deliver on-track results worthy of such investment.
Villeneuve: “Winning matters more than money”
Speaking about the potential transfer, Villeneuve highlighted the importance of Verstappen maintaining his winning trajectory:
“Lawrence Stroll would need someone mentally strong and stubborn to replace Fernando Alonso. Max Verstappen would rather be the type to ask himself: ‘What’s my next step?’ We win with Ferrari, we win with Mercedes—not with Aston Martin. »
Villeneuve compared Verstappen’s situation to that of Lewis Hamilton, arguing that a driver of Verstappen’s caliber thrives on the opportunity to win with historically dominant teams.
“Like Lewis Hamilton, he wants to win. Aston Martin is not at that level yet, and Max needs to think carefully about what is best for his legacy,” Villeneuve added.
Verstappen’s discreet response to rumors
While neither confirming nor denying the reports, Verstappen’s management team responded simply:
“It’s nice. »
The reigning champion has shown a strong sense of loyalty to Red Bull, where he has established himself as one of the greatest in the history of the sport. Despite Red Bull’s recent performance struggles, Verstappen remains determined to secure race victories and further extend his dominance in Formula 1.
Can Aston Martin keep its promises?
The rumored offer is part of Aston Martin’s aggressive bid to elevate its status in F1 ahead of 2026 regulation changes. With Fernando Alonso likely close to retirement, Stroll is keen to secure a star driver to lead the team. However, Villeneuve and other skeptics question whether Aston Martin can provide Verstappen with a car capable of competing with Ferrari, Mercedes and Red Bull.
Aston Martin’s 2024 campaign highlighted their struggle to maintain consistency in development, finishing well behind the top teams in the Constructors’ Championship. Despite significant investment in facilities and a partnership with Honda that begins in 2026, the team is still far from being a consistently winning operation.
Legacy rather than dollars
As Verstappen continues to rack up accolades at Red Bull, the Dutchman appears firmly focused on performance rather than paychecks. With his current contract tying him to Red Bull until 2028, Verstappen has little reason to rush into a move, no matter how lucrative it might be.
For now, Verstappen is keeping his head down and his foot firmly on the accelerator, determined to continue his dominance at the pinnacle of motorsport.
