NO STAPPEN THE EXIT TALKS

MAX VERSTAPPEN is fighting tooth and nail to keep his team in the championship fight this season – but Red Bull now seem in danger of losing their star driver.

- Harry Smith

Reports in Italy this week suggested Aston Martin are in talks with the three-time world champion regarding a sensational switch in 2026.

This would be a stunning capture for team owner Lawrence Stroll but represents a nightmare situation for Red Bull team principal Christian Horner.

Horner, 50 (right) is already managing a driver crisis.

Sergio Perez avoided the mid-season sack after the Belgian Grand Prix, despite heading into the summer break with no top-six finishes in eight races.

Regardless of that decision, his days at Red Bull look numbered.

Following news of that vote of confidence in Perez, team director Helmut Marko admitted that a lack of attractive alternatives was the main factor behind the decision.