Former Red Bull head of operations Richard Hopkins reckons there is a chance Max Verstappen could replace Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari.
Verstappen is under contract until the conclusion of the 2028 campaign but rumours have begun to circulate about his future.
The current world champion did win last time out in Japan, but has endured a tough season in an underperforming car, which has already cost Liam Lawson a role as their second driver.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner revealed at last year’s Dutch Grand Prix that Verstappen’s contract includes a ‘performance element’ that allows the driver to leave before 2028.
Although unconfirmed speculation, it is rumoured the reigning champion can activate an exit clause if he is lower than third after a significant portion of the current season.
Ferrari, despite landing seven-time world champion Hamilton, may be potential suitors.
The Brit is in the twilight of his 18-year career, aged 40, and only has a sprint race win to his name this year, as he begins his deal, with retirement always an option.
Discussing Verstappen’s potential next team, Hopkins told Prime Casino: “McLaren would need to mess up badly to lose Lando [Norris] and Oscar [Piastri].
“They’ve got two great young drivers locked into multi-year deals and they’re performing. Unless something drastic happens, they’re not going anywhere.
“Mercedes is another contender, they’re showing signs of strength again.
“But with George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli waiting in the wings, they’re not exactly desperate for talent either.
“Then there’s Ferrari. If Lewis doesn’t stay as long as expected, an early departure could open a door for Max. And that might be attractive.”
Hopkins, however, named Aston Martin as Verstappen’s most likely next destination, suggesting that Lawrence Stroll may drop his son Lance to facilitate the move.
The Silverstone-based team recently signed Adrian Newey as a managing technical partner who is working on their first car under new regulations planned for 2026.
It is an arrival at Aston Martin that could tempt Verstappen as Newey designed every one of the Dutchman’s title-winning Red Bull cars.
“Honestly, yes, I think Verstappen could be tempted by Aston Martin if Adrian Newey is involved,” Hopkins told Prime Casino.
“I’m not a betting man, but everywhere Adrian has been success has followed.
“And Max? He might be tempted too. Maybe not right away, maybe only once a few more key figures are in place, but Adrian has that Pied Piper effect. People follow him.”
He continued: “And let’s not forget Lawrence Stroll has the budget to make it happen. Money wouldn’t be the issue.
“But it’s not just about money for Max. It could be about legacy, about going to a team like Aston Martin and turning it into a winner, much like Lewis hopes to do with Ferrari.”
