In a bombshell revelation that could send shockwaves through the Formula 1 paddock, Aston Martin has reportedly hatched an audacious plan to create a championship-winning 'super team' by targeting Red Bull's most valuable assets.
The ambitious strategy, spearheaded by billionaire owner Lawrence Stroll, aims to lure both star driver Max Verstappen and embattled team principal Christian Horner away from the reigning constructors' champions in a double swoop that would dramatically alter the F1 landscape.
The Stroll Masterplan
According to insider sources, Aston Martin's approach is far more sophisticated than a simple driver transfer. The vision involves installing Horner as the team's new chief, leveraging his championship-winning expertise to build a structure capable of challenging for titles. Verstappen would then be offered a staggering £150 million deal to become the centrepiece of this new project.
This move represents a significant escalation in Lawrence Stroll's ambitions for the Silverstone-based team. Having already invested heavily in infrastructure, including a new state-of-the-art factory, securing top-tier leadership and talent is seen as the final piece of the puzzle.
Capitalising on Red Bull Turmoil
The approach is strategically timed to exploit the ongoing internal turmoil at Red Bull Racing. The investigation into Horner's conduct, though resulting in his clearance, has created visible tension within the team, particularly between key figures.
Verstappen's father, Jos, publicly stated that the team was in danger of being "torn apart" if Horner remained in position, highlighting the depth of the rift. Aston Martin appears to be positioning itself as a stable and ambitious alternative for both men.
An Unprecedented Challenge
Pulling off such a coup would be unprecedented in modern F1. While driver moves between top teams are complex, orchestrating the simultaneous transfer of a star driver and a legendary team principal is a monumental task.
Red Bull will undoubtedly fight tooth and nail to retain its prized assets. Verstappen is under contract until 2028, and Horner has been the architect of the team's success for nearly two decades. The psychological blow of losing both would be immense.
What This Means for F1
If successful, this move would instantly elevate Aston Martin to the status of a top-tier contender, creating a formidable new rivalry at the front of the grid. It would also represent a massive statement of intent from the Stroll family, proving their willingness to spend whatever it takes to win.
For the sport, it would introduce a thrilling new narrative, breaking the current Red Bull dominance and setting the stage for an intense technical and driver battle. All eyes will now be on the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, where the paddock will be rife with speculation about this potential game-changing shift.
