Aston Martin recently made headlines by announcing the high-profile hiring of former Red Bull chief technical officer Adrian Newey. Newey, known for his technical expertise and leadership in Formula 1, will join Aston Martin as managing technical partner in March 2025. The news has sparked excitement in the motorsport world, especially as rumors suggest that Aston Martin is now targeting Max Verstappen for a future move to the team.
Team principal Mike Krack shared his thoughts on Newey’s arrival, stating that it proves Aston Martin’s commitment to becoming a top contender. He emphasized that Newey’s hiring boosts the team’s credibility and confidence, paving the way for new opportunities, including attracting high-caliber drivers like Verstappen.
When asked about the possibility of Verstappen joining Aston Martin, Krack said, “The door for Max Verstappen is always open, for all teams.” This statement fueled speculation that Aston Martin may be preparing to make a move for the three-time world champion, possibly as soon as 2026.
Several factors could influence Verstappen’s decision to switch teams. Newey’s involvement with Aston Martin is significant, as he played a key role in Red Bull’s dominant performance in recent years. Additionally, Honda’s upcoming switch to supply Aston Martin with engines starting in 2026 may also impact Verstappen’s choice, especially with Red Bull transitioning to in-house power units developed in collaboration with Ford.
With Formula 1’s new regulations set to come into effect in 2026, Verstappen may have concerns about Red Bull’s future performance. Ongoing challenges with Red Bull’s RB20 and recent changes within the team could make Aston Martin an attractive option for the Dutchman.
