Max Verstappen Clarifies Stance on Potential Ferrari Move After Father's Revelation

For many Formula 1 drivers, joining Ferrari is a dream. However, for Max Verstappen, the only condition for lining up for the Maranello squad would be a clear path to victory. He emphasizes that winning in red would be "even better."

Why it matters:

Speculation around Max Verstappen's future has intensified, especially after his father, Jos Verstappen, revealed discussions with not only Mercedes but also Ferrari regarding a potential move. This clarifies Verstappen's priorities amid a season where he trails Oscar Piastri significantly in the standings, making his next career step a major talking point.

The big picture:

Verstappen, a four-time F1 World Champion with Red Bull, has been a central figure in the Red Bull family since his 2015 debut with Toro Rosso. Despite his long-standing ties, his future has been a subject of debate for the past 18 months. Jos Verstappen's recent comments to Viaplay confirmed that Ferrari was among the teams considered for Max's future.

Verstappen's perspective:

Ahead of the Italian Grand Prix, the reigning World Champion addressed the Ferrari rumors directly, making it clear that while such a move isn't on the horizon for next year due to existing contracts, his ultimate goal is to win.

• "They have two drivers contracted for next year, so there is no discussion," Verstappen stated.
• "Is there a chance? Yes, there are a lot of chances in life for any kind of decision. Of course, at the moment that is not on the horizon, but who knows?"
• He stressed that joining Ferrari would not be merely for the brand's prestige: "If I would ever want to go there, I don't go there just to drive for Ferrari, I go there because I see the opportunity to win."
• "And if you win with Ferrari, that's even better." He concluded that decisions should be guided by performance potential, not just emotion.

What's next:

Max Verstappen is set to remain with Red Bull next season, with two more years on his contract that include clauses allowing him to leave under certain conditions. Ferrari's lineup for next year remains Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, with Leclerc on a long-term deal and Hamilton's option extending to 2027.