Before Monza, Max Verstappen talks about Ferrari—and makes it clear that he would only switch to Maranello for victories: Focus on Red Bull’s 2026 season
Ferrari and Monza—few places embody the passion of Formula 1 like the Autodromo Nazionale. While the Tifosi celebrate their home race, Max Verstappen is also the subject of speculation. The four-time world champion was asked again whether he could see himself in a Ferrari one day. His answer was clear: a change would only be possible if the Scuderia were in a position to win races and titles.
“Of course, Ferrari has a special meaning for every driver. It’s a huge brand, and many dream of sitting in a Ferrari one day. But I wouldn’t just go to Ferrari to be a Ferrari driver,” explains Verstappen. “If I do, then I want to win there. Because victories with Ferrari are something very special.”
The Dutchman emphasizes that emotions alone should not be the basis for a career decision: “You can’t be guided by your passion for a brand. It has to be the right fit in terms of sport. Who knows what the future holds – especially with the new rules coming in from 2026.”
Red Bull also out of the title race
The fact that Verstappen is even being asked about possible future options is also related to the current situation at Red Bull. After years of dominance, the team is struggling in 2025, with significantly larger gaps to the top and a lack of success. Verstappen describes the situation soberly.
“Of course, I would prefer a real championship battle. But I knew that there would be phases at some point where we wouldn’t have the fastest car. You can’t force the situation. The important thing is to work with the team to understand the weaknesses and find solutions.”
At his home race in Zandvoort, the Dutchman experienced an example of how big the gap currently is: “We were quite a long way off the top two positions. The race was rather lonely—the leaders were out of reach, and there was only pressure from behind. You have to be realistic: McLaren has a clear lead at the moment. To win more races this year, we’ll also need a bit of luck.”
Looking to the future—new car, new engine
In addition to the short-term problems, Red Bull has long been working on the big challenge: its first own engine for 2026. Verstappen is aware of the risks, but also sees opportunities: “It’s a huge task, that’s clear. But it’s also a very exciting opportunity.”
“With our own powertrain, we are independent and can decide everything ourselves. Of course, the risk is high because the rules are extremely complex. But if we do it right, it’s the best way to remain competitive in the long term.”
The Dutchman believes that the first races after the rule change will be difficult anyway: “In the beginning, it will be challenging for all teams to integrate the engine and chassis perfectly. But that’s exactly what makes it interesting. No one can guarantee today who will really be strong.”
Ferrari as a temptation – but not a foregone conclusion
However, the questions surrounding Ferrari could become louder in 2026 if the Scuderia succeeds in making a big splash with the new regulations. Now in Monza, the 27-year-old can once again get a clear picture of what it means to drive for the prancing horse, but Verstappen emphasizes once again that a change would not be an end in itself for him.
“Ferrari is a legend. Every driver thinks about it at some point. But for me, the decisive factor would be that I can win there. I’m not going there just to drive a red car.”
He makes it clear that he does not base his future on nostalgia or prestige, but measures it solely in terms of sporting success: “I don’t even know how long I’ll be driving in Formula 1. There are many unknowns in my life,” says Verstappen.
For now, however, the focus remains on the here and now. Verstappen knows that Red Bull currently only has an outside chance against McLaren. Depending on the track layout and how the race unfolds, Monza could once again be a difficult weekend. But Verstappen has often shown that he can get the most out of difficult situations.