Qualifying top three in parc ferme (L to R): Carlos Sainz Jr (ESP) Ferrari, third; Max Verstappen (NLD) Red Bull Racing, pole position; Charles Leclerc (MON) Ferrari, second. 30.06.2023. Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 10, Austrian Grand Prix, Spielberg, Austria, Qualifying Day.
Max Verstappen has been coy on the prospect of a future switch to Ferrari in Formula 1, admitting that it would be “an incredible team to compete with” at some stage.
Verstappen has been associated with Red Bull since signing for its driver development scheme in August 2014, turning down the interest of Mercedes to commence his F1 career at the age of 17 in 2015 with Toro Rosso, Red Bull’s second-string side.
The Dutchman was victorious on debut for the senior Red Bull team at the 2016 Spanish Grand Prix, since adding 48 more wins and securing three consecutive Drivers’ titles.
After signing a blockbuster contract extension at the beginning of last year, Verstappen is tied to Red Bull through 2028 and has repeatedly expressed he could elect to walk away from F1 once that time arrives.
However, in a recent interview with Sportweek, the newly crowned three-time World Champion has opened the door to the possibility of a move to Ferrari down the line.
“I know that Ferrari has an incredible history in Formula 1 and is an incredible team to compete with,” Verstappen said.
“I know that when the current contract comes to an end I will be 31 years old and I am quite convinced that I will still be able to do great things.”
Despite not denying the chances of a stint at Ferrari, Verstappen told Sky F1 it would represent a “beautiful story” if he remained with Red Bull throughout his F1 career.
“It would be a beautiful story if I could drive here forever, that’s for sure, something that will be amazing,” Verstappen issued.
“I’m really happy with where I am. I feel at home, I feel really happy with the people who are very close to me here in the team.
“For me, this is not something that I need to seek. I have a few more years left on my contract anyway, so I’m just enjoying the moment.”
Carlos Sainz Jr (ESP) Ferrari SF-23 and Max Verstappen (NLD) Red Bull Racing RB19 battle for the lead of the race. 03.09.2023. Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 15, Italian Grand Prix, Monza, Italy, Race Day
Regardless of whether a transition to the red team ever materialises, Verstappen is keen to add Michael Schumacher’s 2004 championship-winning Ferrari to his collection.
Ex-Ferrari driver Sebastian Vettel, Red Bull’s other F1 multiple title winner, admitted he previously attempted to purchase the F2004, but it was “too expensive” for the German.
“I would like to keep for my personal collection the three cars with which I have been world champion, but also Michael Schumacher’s F2004,” he outlined.
“It’s an incredible car… but I don’t know where to buy it. Yes, it’s an appeal to John Elkann (Ferrari president). I hope he reads this interview and calls me,” he remarked.
Recently, former Ferrari president Luca di Montezemelo lavished praise on Verstappen after his crowning moment as a three-time title winner, expressing “We have followed him since he competed in karting championships, he is very brave, I like him.”
The future of Ferrari’s current drivers – Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz – remains undecided, with both retaining contracts that expire at the end of next year.
Keyword: Verstappen coy on prospect of future Ferrari F1 switch