Verstappen Expresses Reservations About Potential Alonso Partnership at Red Bull
Max Verstappen, the current star of the Red Bull Formula 1 team, has raised concerns about the possibility of driving alongside Fernando Alonso in the upcoming season. While acknowledging that he does not have the final say in team decisions, Verstappen emphasized that such a move would deviate from Red Bull’s longstanding commitment to nurturing young talent.
Alonso, aged 42, has showcased his competitive edge with Aston Martin, securing podium finishes seven times in 2023 and delivering notable performances this year, including a fifth-place finish at the Japanese Grand Prix.
However, Verstappen questioned the wisdom of signing a driver nearing the twilight of his career, expressing his belief that it contradicts the team’s ethos of fostering young drivers.
Verstappen’s comments come amid speculation about potential lineup changes at Red Bull, with Sergio Perez’s future with the team uncertain for the 2025 season. While Alonso may be viewed as an attractive option for Red Bull, Verstappen urged the team to prioritize its long-term vision over short-term gains.
The Dutch driver reiterated his respect for Alonso but stressed the importance of considering the team’s future trajectory. Ultimately, Verstappen affirmed that the decision regarding driver lineup rests with the team management.
“I don’t care who sits next to me. I also said that to the team. I always believe in myself and in my opinion I am not the boss of everyone. But if you ask me, I would find it strange to sign a 42-year-old driver,” Verstappen told De Limburger.
“Red Bull has always had the tradition of training young drivers itself. The signing of Sergio Perez was a departure from that trend, especially with a 42-year-old driver.”
“[It’s not that] I can’t get along with Fernando, that’s not it, but I also look at the future of the team. Ultimately, it is up to them to determine who drives where.”
Meanwhile, Alonso himself remains undecided about his future in Formula 1. With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, the two-time world champion has openly admitted to evaluating his options, including the possibility of retirement from motorsport.
Reflecting on his recent performances, Alonso highlighted the enjoyment he derives from racing but also acknowledged the sizable gap between himself and Verstappen on the track.
“It goes either way. I had a lot of fun, which is great to keep on racing. I had one of my best weekends ever in driving,” Alonso said to the press in Japan. “[But] I am 44 seconds behind the leader, so it doesn’t feel that attractive at the same time, so let’s see.”
As speculation swirls around potential driver movements, the Formula 1 community eagerly awaits Red Bull’s decision and Alonso’s next career move, which could have significant implications for the upcoming season.