Max Verstappen Urged to Seize 'Perfect Timing' for Red Bull Exit

The Formula 1 world is buzzing with talk about Max Verstappen’s future, and some believe now might be the perfect time for the four-time champion to leave Red Bull. Despite his contract running until 2028, a special clause could let Verstappen walk away early if he’s not in the top two in the drivers’ standings by the summer break. With Red Bull struggling to keep up with McLaren, the idea of a shocking move is gaining traction.

Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert recently shared his thoughts with CoinCasino, saying this could be the ideal moment for Verstappen to make a change. He pointed to Aston Martin as a possible destination, especially with their big Saudi backing and the arrival of legendary designer Adrian Newey. “If Aston Martin nails their car for next year, they could be the team to beat,” Herbert said.

Both Mercedes and Aston Martin are reportedly interested in signing Verstappen, though Aston Martin’s seats are currently taken by Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, who have long-term deals. McLaren’s boss, Zak Brown, thinks Verstappen might end up at Mercedes, thanks to their strong setup and edge in the new 2026 engine rules. Meanwhile, Red Bull’s Helmut Marko has downplayed the Aston Martin rumors but admitted there’s a clause that could let Verstappen leave, keeping the speculation alive.

Verstappen has been a powerhouse this season, earning nearly 98% of Red Bull’s points despite their car, the RB21, not being the fastest. His win at the Japanese Grand Prix, called “perfection” by his race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase, showed he’s still at the top of his game. But with Red Bull hitting a development wall, as his manager Raymond Vermeulen noted, Verstappen’s skill is what’s keeping them in the fight. As McLaren leads the constructors’ championship and Red Bull slips, all eyes are on Verstappen. The 2025 season could be a game-changer for F1’s biggest name.