This article discusses the possibility of Max Verstappen leaving Red Bull Racing at the end of the year. Internal issues within Red Bull, including the departure of key personnel like Adrian Newey and a significant drop in performance, have led to Verstappen's dissatisfaction.
Red Bull's dominance in 2023 drastically declined in 2024. Internal conflicts, departures of key engineers, and a drop in car performance have created a volatile environment. This situation has contributed to Verstappen's unhappiness.
Verstappen's contract with Red Bull extends to 2028, but he possesses clauses that allow him to leave at the end of 2024. His concerns center around the upcoming 2026 regulation changes and Red Bull's in-house engine project. Staying with Red Bull could mean another season of suboptimal performance.
While many teams desire Verstappen, Mercedes and Aston Martin are seen as frontrunners. Mercedes, however, is committed to its current drivers. Aston Martin, with the return of Honda and Adrian Newey, presents a compelling opportunity for Verstappen, even though it would require displacing either Lance Stroll or Fernando Alonso.