F1 fans tell Max Verstappen they would love to see him join one rival team if he decides to leave Red Bull

Max Verstappen’s future at Red Bull is being widely debated in the Formula 1 paddock. Despite having a contract until 2028, many wonder if the Dutchman could leave early.

The 27-year-old has dominated the grid with the Milton Keynes outfit in recent years, winning the last four championships in a row. Verstappen is looking to become only the second driver in history to win five consecutive titles.

However, Red Bull’s regression over the winter have made that a difficult task. While Verstappen grabbed a sensational win in Japan, he has struggled to handle the RB21’s sensitive nature.

The Dutchman had warned the team about the problems with the car, but they were ignored, leaving Verstappen increasingly frustrated. This friction with Red Bull has led to further speculation that he could leave the team early.

Despite having a contract until 2028, there are ways out of the deal for the four-time champion. Verstappen has a ‘top three’ exit clause that allows him to leave with Red Bull fall out of the top three in the constructors’ championship, with several candidates eyeing his signature.

F1 fans want to see Max Verstappen join Aston Martin if he chooses to leave Red Bull

Mercedes and Aston Martin have been the teams mentioned the most in the running to sign Verstappen, with the latter the clear favourites. The Silverstone squad are building an exciting project with Adrian Newey spearheading the operation with Honda engines come 2026 – two huge pull factors.

The Dutchman enjoyed great success at Red Bull with Newey and Honda, and Lawrence Stroll is said to be doing everything he can to reunite the trio. Aston Martin have a £1bn contract ready for Verstappen, with several fans wanting him to take the offer.

Sky Sports posted via X (formerly Twitter), asking fans which team they would like to see Verstappen at in 2026. The majority pointed towards Aston Martin.

Some fans want to see the Dutchman replace Lance Stroll and partner with Fernando Alonso. One said: “Would be funny if he replaced Stroll at Aston Martin and take them to the top with another Adrien Newey designed car.”

Another user wrote: “Aston, together with Fernando and Adrian. Really curious what they can do,” while another echoed: “Aston Martin. Adrian plus Honda engine plus max. If Daddy Stroll is serious about winning something.”

One fan saw no other alternative besides staying put or joining Aston Martin, as they wrote: “Aston Martin perhaps? Or Red Bull. I don’t see other options.”

Another user has high hopes for the Dutchman’s arrival in Silverstone: “Aston Martin – Next year is a Newey car with a Honda engine. *Takes another hit of Hopium*.”

Finally, one fan said: “I’d like him to stay put but if he goes anywhere most likely is AM. Toto is not letting George or Kimi go, and unless Lewis quits, Ferrari isn’t an option. I think he’ll most likely stay where he is and accept that this hasn’t been the teams best year and try again in 26.”

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Some F1 fans see Max Verstappen retiring from F1 altogether

While some fans believe Verstappen will be bound for Aston Martin, others can see the 27-year-old leaving the sport entirely – and this is not an unrealistic prospect.

Verstappen confidante say he could sit out in 2026 and take a sabbatical from F1 before returning in 2027. If he does, Ferrari could be an option with Lewis Hamilton out of contract.

Several fans on X believe this is possible, with the Dutchman expecting his first child later this year. One wrote: “He should retire, he’s not enjoying the competition right now. He can continue on the virtual racing championship.”

Another said: “Baby’s on the way. Perhaps take a sabbatical for a year or two, and with proper assessment go to the top constructor. Any constructor would be happy to have him.”

Another user echoed: “I wouldn’t be surprised if Verstappen calls it a day with F1 and does something else. I’m not predicting it, just wouldn’t be shocked if that’s what he does.”