Importance Score: 40 / 100 🔵
Verstappen Manager Fuels Alpine Speculation with Paddock Meeting
Amidst swirling speculation regarding his Formula 1 future, Max Verstappen’s manager, Raymond Vermeulen, was observed in discussion with Alpine team principal Oliver Oakes at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. This encounter follows recent suggestions from former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher that the Alpine team could emerge as a potential destination for the reigning world champion. Verstappen’s future has become a significant topic of debate within the paddock this weekend, particularly in the wake of a challenging season-opening race in Bahrain.
Alpine Emerges as Possible Contender for Verstappen
Both Red Bull Racing drivers encountered difficulties extracting optimal performance from their RB21 car during the Bahrain Grand Prix. Verstappen, despite securing a points finish by overtaking Pierre Gasly late in the race, only managed to conclude the event in sixth place. While the 27-year-old has been previously associated with potential moves to Mercedes and Aston Martin should he depart Red Bull, Schumacher proposes that Alpine could present an intriguing option for Verstappen to consider.
Schumacher Highlights Mercedes Engine Advantage for Alpine
“The team often overlooked, yet certainly a factor in these discussions… Alpine!” Schumacher stated on the Backstage Boxengasse podcast. “Flavio Briatore has secured Mercedes engines for their team starting next year.”
Schumacher further pointed to Pierre Gasly’s performance, adding, “The car cannot be fundamentally flawed. Combine that with an additional 30 horsepower from the Mercedes power unit… I wouldn’t exclude Alpine from consideration.”
Mercedes Power Unit a Key Attraction for Potential Verstappen Move
Although Alpine may not possess the same financial resources as Mercedes and Aston Martin, their current performance notably surpasses Aston Martin’s in the 2025 season. The allure of a Mercedes engine is considerable, particularly given the positive indications emanating from Brackley and Brixworth concerning their new engine developments for the 2026 season.
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A move to Alpine would see Verstappen reunited with former Red Bull teammate Pierre Gasly. Gasly, having outperformed Esteban Ocon in the previous season, has solidified his position as a leading figure within the Enstone-based team. However, the arrival of a driver of Verstappen’s stature would likely jeopardize the Formula 1 aspirations of junior driver Jack Doohan.
Verstappen Remains Focused Amidst Transfer Rumors
Despite the mounting speculation regarding his future within Red Bull, Verstappen maintains a composed demeanor. When questioned about Helmut Marko’s expressed concerns following the Bahrain Grand Prix, Verstappen responded, “I’m honestly not aware. I simply continue to focus on my work and strive to improve the car’s performance.”
“Bahrain was not a satisfactory weekend for us as a team. We collectively shared disappointment with the outcome. Our approach remains consistent: to persistently refine the car and generate innovative concepts for implementation. The competitive landscape is intense, and my week-to-week focus is dedicated to enhancing our overall situation.”