Herbert: Problems with the engine will make it easier for Max to solve

      Max Verstappen's contract with Red Bull Racing is valid until the end of 2028. The four-time world champion has repeatedly said that he is going to refine it, but former Formula 1 racer Johnny Herbert believes that Max will leave the team if the power plant jointly developed by Red Bull Powertrains and Ford turns out to be uncompetitive in 2026.

      Johnny Herbert: "There are rumors that Red Bull is having a harder time with the power plant than they expected, and things are not so positive. If things are really not going according to plan with the powertrain, then this will simplify decision-making, especially if you know that Aston Martin has a competitive powertrain and Adrian Newey.

      In this case, Verstappen will have every reason to change the team. Max is not a stupid person and wants to compete where he has the best chance of winning races and the title. If the engine fails and there is an opportunity to switch to Aston Martin, I will be shocked if Max does not take advantage of the moment. He knows that this team, along with Adrian and Honda motors, is a potential place where he needs to be.

      Would you turn down such an opportunity just to stay in a team where you've enjoyed the last few years? In the case of the racers, this approach does not work, especially in the case of Max. He wants to win.

      Christian Horner has repeatedly said that Max is not going anywhere. I know he has a contract until 2028, but contracts don't mean anything if there are no results. I know that the champions' contracts have conditions related to the team's results."