In a development that has detonated like a bomb across the Formula 1 paddock, Max Verstappen has publicly confirmed that he has held multiple private meetings with Christian Horner — meetings believed to be part of a staggering, multi-million-euro proposal that could see the reigning world champion leave Red Bull and join Aston Martin.
What began as quiet whispers behind hospitality doors has now erupted into the biggest transfer story F1 has seen in over a decade. Verstappen’s admission, delivered in a tense media scrum in Las Vegas, has pushed the rumor mill into overdrive:
“Yes, we spoke. More than once. I’m evaluating all possibilities,” Verstappen stated, refusing to elaborate further — which only intensified the shock.
A Secret Operation, Far From Red Bull Eyes
Insiders claim that these discussions were not casual chats. Sources describe carefully coordinated, ultra-private meetings arranged by Horner himself — held in exclusive, off-the-grid locations in Monaco, Dubai, and even a secluded London estate owned by one of Aston Martin’s new investors.
The secrecy alone suggested something big.
But the real bombshell is the deal placed in front of Verstappen:
💶 €250 MILLION. FOUR YEARS. PART-OWNERSHIP ON THE TABLE.
Multiple insiders confirm:
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A €250 million salary package
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Additional equity shares in Aston Martin F1
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Direct influence on driver selection
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An advisory position in technical development
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The option to expand into senior management after retirement
No other driver in F1 history has ever been offered this level of power.
If finalized, Verstappen would not just be a driver — he would become a cornerstone figure in the future direction of Aston Martin Formula One.
Red Bull in Panic Mode — And the Internal War Gets Worse
Behind the scenes, Red Bull is spiraling.
Following months of internal power struggles, legal disputes, and what Verstappen himself has reportedly called “unnecessary politics”, the superteam is suddenly teetering. With Dietrich Mateschitz gone, the factions inside Red Bull are battling for control — and Verstappen is caught in the middle.
Sources close to the team say Verstappen feels “exhausted with the instability” and increasingly drawn to Horner’s offer of a clean, powerful, political-free environment.
Even more damaging:
Verstappen’s management has already requested formal legal clarification on the exit-clause linked to “major leadership restructuring” within Red Bull — a clause that may open the door for him to walk away as early as next season.
Aston Martin Prepares for a Media Earthquake
Within Aston Martin, preparations are reportedly already underway for what insiders call “Project Apex” — an ambitious restructuring designed around Verstappen becoming the team’s new centerpiece.
An enormous press event is rumored to be scheduled shortly before the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix — a timing that suggests Aston Martin may be ready to drop the biggest announcement of the decade.
Even more shocking:
Lawrence Stroll is said to have stepped back from day-to-day operations, clearing the runway for Christian Horner to take full control of the team.
A Move That Could Reshape F1 Entirely
If this deal goes through:
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Red Bull loses its superstar
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Aston Martin becomes an instant championship contender
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Mercedes and Ferrari are forced into a defensive scramble
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F1’s power balance is flipped upside down
With the 2026 regulation reset looming — and a driver who could dominate for another decade — this is more than a transfer.
It is a hostile takeover of Formula 1’s future.
And as the Las Vegas Grand Prix approaches, the tension is unbearable.
Max’s Final Words in Vegas:
“There will be news soon. Very soon.”
The paddock froze.
The countdown has begun.
