F1 Legend’s ‘For Sure’ Verdict on Verstappen to Aston Martin Rumours

Mario Andretti has weighed in on the sensational rumour linking Max Verstappen to Aston Martin, revealing that he knows “for sure” the team would like to sign the reigning World Champion. This follows reports of a staggering £1 billion deal aimed at luring Verstappen from Red Bull.

The Verstappen to Aston Martin Speculation

Rumours about Max Verstappen leaving Red Bull have been swirling throughout the 2024 season, with the latest linking him to Aston Martin for 2025. According to the Daily Mail, Aston Martin’s managing director of commercial and marketing, Jefferson Slack, has reportedly been pitching potential sponsors with claims that Verstappen is set to join the team.

The publication suggests that the deal includes a “name your price” salary offer for Verstappen, with the total package valued at £1 billion. An unnamed source commented:

“Jefferson has been saying that Max is going to be joining Aston Martin. It may be a ploy to add value to the deal he’s negotiating, but bringing Max in also makes perfect sense.”

While Aston Martin has categorically denied the report, the speculation has ignited discussions, with Andretti adding fuel to the fire.

Andretti’s Perspective: Why Aston Martin Wants Verstappen

The 1978 F1 World Champion, Mario Andretti, has voiced his belief that Aston Martin would jump at the chance to sign Verstappen:

“I know for sure that they would like to have Verstappen,” he told F1Maximaal.

Andretti emphasized that securing the best talents, like Adrian Newey and Max Verstappen, is crucial for any team aspiring to dominate Formula 1:

“Let’s be honest: who wouldn’t want Adrian Newey and Max Verstappen in their team? I would give my right arm to have them in my team, so I understand Aston Martin.”

The Newey Factor: More Valuable Than Verstappen?

For Andretti, however, Adrian Newey remains the ultimate asset. Reflecting on his time working with Newey in the 1987 IndyCar World Series, Andretti praised the engineer’s unique ability to connect with drivers and deliver results:

“I’ve worked with the guy, and he’s by far the best I’ve ever worked with. He not only makes the car fast but also gives a driver confidence because he speaks the language of the drivers.”

Andretti highlighted Newey’s exceptional understanding of car dynamics, aerodynamics, and balance, making him an indispensable figure in motorsport.

Aston Martin’s Ambitions: Building a Championship Team

Aston Martin has emerged as a serious contender in recent years, but landing Verstappen could be the game-changer they need to challenge Red Bull. Andretti’s comments underline the team’s ambition:

“If you surround yourself with individuals who have proven themselves and shown that they are the best, then you almost have a guarantee that you are going to get results.”

Conclusion: Will Verstappen Make the Move?

While Aston Martin has denied the rumours, the idea of Max Verstappen leaving Red Bull for a record-breaking deal with Aston Martin is an intriguing prospect. As speculation continues, one thing is clear—both Verstappen and Newey are coveted prizes in the world of Formula 1.

Whether the rumoured £1 billion deal becomes a reality or not, the buzz surrounding Verstappen to Aston Martin highlights the lengths teams are willing to go to secure the best talent in the sport.