Speculation surrounding Max Verstappen’s future in Formula 1 has intensified following Red Bull’s disappointing performance at the Bahrain Grand Prix, where the reigning World Champion could manage only sixth place.

Verstappen’s unusually downbeat comments after the race, where he downplayed his chances of defending the title, added fuel to the rumours. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has since admitted concern about Verstappen’s long-term commitment to the team amid swirling reports of interest from rival outfits.

READ MORE: Max Verstappen responds to Helmut Marko’s Red Bull exit concerns

Leading the speculation is a report from Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, claiming Aston Martin is preparing to make a record-breaking offer to bring Verstappen to the team.

According to the report, the contract would be worth 300 million dollars, with Verstappen earning 100 million per year for three seasons, making it the most lucrative deal in F1 history. It would be almost double what Verstappen currently earns at Red Bull, where he’s said to be making around 55 million dollars a year until the end of 2028.

The funding for the proposed offer is said to come from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which is also believed to be interested in gaining more influence over the team. 

What could make the offer even more attractive to Verstappen is the fact that Aston Martin has already brought in top talent like Adrian Newey, a legendary car designer, and secured a future engine partnership with Honda, the company that powered his previous championship wins.

However, Aston Martin has responded by saying they remain committed to their current driver line-up. Both Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll signed new contracts last year that will keep them with the team through at least the end of 2026.

Team principal Andy Cowell has pushed back against the speculation. When asked about the Verstappen rumours, he said the focus remains on the drivers they already have.

“We’re incredibly fortunate that we’ve got two experienced drivers signed for the next two years,” Cowell explained. “That means I can just focus on trying to help improve the business and the art of making a fast race car.”

Aston Martin is currently seventh in the Constructors’ Championship. Cowell made it clear that performance is the team’s top priority. When asked directly if there is room for Verstappen in the future, he replied: “I’m saying that my head’s full of improving the company so that we can make a fast race car for Lance and Fernando.”