Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: Max Verstappen, Formula 1, Red Bull Racing
Marcus Chan
There has reportedly been a new development with regards to Max Verstappen's future.
After winning four Formula 1 world titles in a row, it looks likely that his reign will end in 2025.
Currently, the Dutchman is third in the standings, 16 points behind Lando Norris and 32 adrift of leader Oscar Piastri.
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McLaren have been the dominant force so far in 2025, with the likes of Red Bull, Mercedes and Ferrari fighting to be the second best team on the grid.
Due to the current struggles at Red Bull, Verstappen has been linked with a move away from the team.
The likes of Aston Martin, Mercedes and even Williams have been mentioned as potential destinations for the Dutchman.
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However, it has now been claimed that one team interested in Verstappen is now 'out of the question'.
As reported by F1 Insider, Verstappen and his camp have narrowed down the options for 2026 to just two: staying with Red Bull or leaving for Mercedes.
It has been suggested that a move to Aston Martin is now 'out of the question' despite the lure of Adrian Newey and Honda power units.
The report also claimed that Red Bull are set to bring upgrades to the Imola Grand Prix in two weeks' time, which they hope will give Verstappen 'a new lease of life'.
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Speaking recently, 1996 F1 world champion Damon Hill presented the idea of Verstappen taking a year out to properly assess his options.
He told the Chequered Flag Podcast: "I think he could. It might be a wise thing to do when you can see which way the wind’s going to blow after these new regulation changes.
"He’s young, he’s won four world championships, he’s won goodness how many races."
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Hill added: "Nobody knows what’s on the other side of the end of this season. What is going to happen?
"He could sit back next year and go, OK, I can see which way the future’s going to go for the next 10 years and whatever team is doing well will find the money to pay for having Max."
Currently, Verstappen is under contract at Red Bull until 2028.