Montoya has his own theory about why Max stayed with Red Bull.

      Juan Pablo Montoya put forward his theory explaining why Max Verstappen preferred to stay at Red Bull Racing — the former driver suggested that the four-time world champion's decision was linked to the financial side of the matter.

      "I don't think he had a choice," Montoya reasoned. "If I had been negotiating with Max last year, when he won the championship, it would have cost me, say, $100 million. But this year, when he has a problematic car, the amount could be halved.

      Perhaps that's why he stayed with the team. Likely Verstappen figured that whoever negotiated with him would have the advantage, because they would be able to dictate their terms, knowing that Max needs a new contract more than they need to sign a contract with Max.

      Last year, to secure Max's services, one would have had to offer him an astronomical sum. I suppose this year you can already bargain with him. You can tell him that if he's counting on a contract, this is the sum on offer. And Toto could only offer Max half of what would have to be offered last year."

      After 14 rounds of the season, Verstappen sits third in the drivers' standings, trailing the leader, Oscar Piastri, by almost 100 points.