Since the start of the 2025 Formula 1 season, rumors about the future of Max Verstappen have been rife. The current situation at Red Bull, marked by inconsistent and declining performance and internal tensions, has put the four-time world champion in the spotlight. And Aston Martin has been touted as one of the possible destinations for the Dutch driver. However, the British team has sought to nip any speculation in the bud.
Andy Cowell, Aston Martin’s new team principal, has been clear: the team’s future is linked to Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, and there are no plans that include Verstappen. A statement that, beyond dispelling rumors, also hints at a long-term commitment to its current drivers, especially Alonso, whose future in 2026 seems more secure than ever.
Cowell confirms Alonso and Stroll
Speaking during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend, Andy Cowell left little room for doubt when asked about the rumors linking Max Verstappen with Aston Martin. “We are very fortunate to have Fernando and Lance on long-term contracts, so the challenge for me and the team is how to create a fast car for them. That is our sole focus,” he explained.
With these words, Cowell made it clear that, at least for the moment, there are no negotiations or open contacts with Verstappen. Both Alonso and Stroll have existing commitments that extend beyond the 2025 season, which in practice closes the door to any high-profile signings such as the Dutchman.
This message serves to reinforce Fernando Alonso’s position. At 43, he remains a key player in the Aston Martin project. The Asturian’s renewal and his permanence in the team for 2026 no longer seem like a mystery but a certainty.
The performance of the AMR25
Beyond names and speculation, Aston Martin has other pressing challenges to resolve. The start of the 2025 season has been uneven, and the performance of the AMR25 has not lived up to expectations. Cowell acknowledges this and says the team’s focus is exclusively on improving the current car.
“We didn’t finish last year’s championship particularly strongly, so over the winter we focused on finding out what we could improve. Although the car has evolved, our rivals have also taken steps forward,” said the Briton.
The key areas for improvement are clearly identified. “We are looking at where we need to gain performance. Is it in slow corners? In fast corners? The answer is, to a large extent, in slow corners, but it is very difficult to generate downforce in those conditions,” he added.
Aston Martin’s goal
Although Cowell hints that Aston Martin is not considering external drivers, the 2026 season appears to be a turning point for the entire grid. The new technical regulations and the role of Adrian Newey, who is already focused on that project, could redefine the competitive landscape. Even so, the British team wants to build its future with the current pieces, without relying on big-name signings.
Red Bull is going through internal turmoil and Verstappen is keeping quiet about his future, while Aston Martin is betting on stability. With Alonso committed and Stroll backed up, Cowell’s message is clear: at Silverstone, they have already chosen their path for 2026.