With his four titles, Max Verstappen is one of the most sought-after drivers in Formula 1. Earlier this year, there were already plenty of rumors about a possible move to Mercedes. The German racing team had been flirting with the Dutchman for some time, but during the race weekend in Hungary, he confirmed his loyalty to Red Bull. Former driver Juan Pablo Montoya speculates that Verstappen may be forced to stay, as his negotiating position has weakened.
Contrary to other experts, Montoya believes that Verstappen has little room for maneuver when it comes to a transfer. According to the Colombian, it was Red Bull that had a strong negotiating position this year. “Last year, Max Verstappen probably would have cost 100 million,” Montoya explained to betting platform Coinpoker. Despite driving a less competitive car, the Dutchman managed to clinch the world title last year. Because his car is performing even less this year, Verstappen might be less attractive. “This year he’s driving an even more difficult car, so you might be able to contract him for 50 million,” Montoya elaborated.
‘Toto Wolff Could Have Offered Half’
“Perhaps that’s why he’s staying,” suggested the seven-time race winner. “Maybe Max thought he would get 100 million, but the negotiators had the upper hand. They knew that Verstappen needed them more than they needed him,” Montoya judged. “You can negotiate differently this year and say: ‘If you want to be here, this is the amount you get.’ That’s how Toto Wolff could have offered him half compared to last year.”
Meanwhile, all signs point to Mercedes continuing with its current driver duo, consisting of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli. Both are still waiting for a contract extension, but with Verstappen remaining loyal to Red Bull, nothing stands in the way of a new collaboration. Toto Wolff has admitted that he felt obliged to talk to Verstappen, although no deal has come out of it. The Dutchman may still opt for a transfer in the future. His current contract with Red Bull, which runs until 2028, can be dissolved at a later date.
