Montoya on Verstappen: “The grass isn’t always greener on the other side”

Although Max Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull Racing does not expire until the end of 2028, there is already lively discussion about the exceptional driver’s future career. This is due in no small part to Verstappen himself, who has made it clear that he does not wish to remain in Formula 1 at any cost should the sport take an undesirable turn. He has also emphasised on several occasions that having a car capable of winning is important to him.

Consequently, there is a great deal of talk about his next career move. Juan Pablo Montoya has also been giving the matter some thought. Speaking to the betting firm ‘www.betpack.com’, the former Grand Prix star said: ‘I’ve heard that Red Bull is doing everything it can to reach an agreement with Max that will bring him more money, but which doesn’t include an exit clause.’

“He’s been asked what sort of contract extension he’s looking for, so that he’ll finally stop playing games. So is Max negotiating by talking to other teams to get more money? Or does Max really want to leave?” asks the Colombian, adding emphatically: “It’s always just about the money!”

Montoya: Max Verstappen is king at Red Bull Racing

However, the seven-time Grand Prix winner admits that one factor is even more important: “But for me, the most important thing is the status Max has at Red Bull Racing. He’s the king. Does he really want to take on Kimi Antonelli at Mercedes – who’s Toto Wolff’s favourite – just to become the king of the jungle there? Does he really want to take on Lando Norris at McLaren, who is the world champion and CEO Zak Brown’s golfing mate? Would Max want to go anywhere where it’s not all about him? I’d say no.”

Montoya went on to explain that he didn’t believe a seat would become available at Mercedes in the next few years. “McLaren would certainly love to sign Max, but would Max be happy with the situation of not being number one? I don’t think he’ll go there. The only possibility is if McLaren regains its dominance in the next few races. Max would have to be convinced that this is the team to beat over the next few years. Then he might think to himself that he can beat Lando and cope with the situation,” continued the driver with 94 Grand Prix starts to his name. “If that’s not the case, why would he leave?”

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Montoya is convinced: Red Bull Racing is on the right track

Montoya therefore argues in favour of staying with Red Bull Racing, emphasising: “Look at what Red Bull has done with the engine. They have the best engine on the grid. They might not be winning races, but they’re not far off either. They’re right up there with the best. If they can squeeze out a few more tenths, they’ll be really good.”

“The car isn’t quite where it needs to be yet. But despite all the people who’ve left the team, they’re still performing incredibly well. It was the first car not developed by Adrian Newey, and it was good; they’ve improved it and are on the right track. So Max might well realise that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side.”