Adrian Newey suggests that Max Verstappen`s future decisions in Formula 1 will always be driven by his pursuit of the team he believes can provide the quickest car, amidst rumors linking the four-time world champion to Aston Martin.
The renowned F1 designer, Newey, attended his first Grand Prix with Aston Martin in Monaco. This appearance came nearly three months after he left Red Bull to become Aston Martin`s new managing technical partner.
Speaking to Martin Brundle, Newey addressed persistent rumors in the paddock suggesting Verstappen might eventually join him at the ambitious Silverstone outfit. These rumors are fueled partly by Honda, Red Bull`s current engine supplier, also moving to power Aston Martin from the start of the new F1 regulations era next year.
Newey described Verstappen: “`Max is obviously a formidable competitor, but in an entirely complimentary sense, he`s a very straightforward individual.`”
“`All he desires is a quick car where he can demonstrate his abilities.`”
“`Therefore, I believe Max will always pursue the team he feels is capable of producing the fastest car.`”
`Lance gets an unfairly bad rap`
Verstappen is currently contracted to Red Bull until the end of the 2028 season. However, his contract reportedly includes performance-related clauses that could potentially allow him to leave earlier under specific conditions.
For the 2026 season, Aston Martin has already secured contracts with their current drivers, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll.
When asked about the prospect of working with the 43-year-old two-time champion Fernando Alonso for the first time, Newey commented: “`Fernando is, well, goodness me – a true legend.`”
“`Looking at my more recent career, I`ve often felt two regrets: not having had the chance to work with either Lewis Hamilton or Fernando Alonso.`”
“`Now, I have the opportunity to rectify one of those regrets.`”
Regarding Lance Stroll, the son of Aston Martin owner Lawrence Stroll, Newey stated: “`I believe Lance receives unfair criticism.`”
“`In fact, if you examine Lance`s performance compared to his teammates – including Sergio Perez, Sebastian Vettel, and currently Fernando – he is certainly not slow.`”
Wesley Dunham 
Gilbert Pendleton