Max Verstappen has been linked with a move to Aston Martin (Image: Getty)
used interest in their GT3 car to “lure” the four-time reigning world champion, advisor Helmut Marko has claimed. Verstappen has been routinely linked with a move to ’s Formula One rivals over the past few months.
Wide-ranging reports claim that Aston have raised the prospect of signing the Dutchman during talks with potential sponsors. It was suggested during the off-season that they would be prepared to pay a whopping £790million ($1billion) to take him away from .
Despite that apparent interest in luring Verstappen, Marko claims that Aston have only discussed their new GT3 car with the 27-year-old. Verstappen is understood to be interested in GT vehicles and Aston Martin’s are considered top of the range.
“Officially, there has been contact because of Max’s passion for GT racing,” Marko told Motorsport-Total. “As we know, Max is a team owner and regularly drives GT cars himself.
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
“Apparently the Aston Martin is seen as one of the most interesting cars in that category and one has now become part of Max’s GT programme. The GT3 was the lure. And it is no secret that [Adrian] Newey is a big fan of Max. And then it’s only logical that you make him an offer.
“Whether the bid was really that high, I doubt – especially given Aston Martin’s current share price. But it was certainly a significant bid.
“With someone like Newey on board, who certainly has his own ideas and preferences when it comes to drivers, it would make absolute sense for Aston Martin to at least try and make Max an offer.”
Verstappen himself has confirmed that “the only contact” he has had with Aston Martin was to discuss “GT3 for this year, that’s it”.
Adrian Newey was a key ally to Max Verstappen at Red Bull but he has joined Aston Martin (Image: Getty)
This year, he will drive in a car not designed by Adrian Newey for the first time. The veteran designer has moved to Aston Martin ahead of the 2025 season. He had previously designed each of ’s F1 cars since 2007.
It remains to be seen whether will be the dominant force on the grid this year. and made huge progress in the second half of 2024, with the former winning the Constructors’ Championship and the latter welcoming during the off-season.
The 2025 season gets underway with the Australian Grand Prix on March 16.