Overview

• Cowell characterised the Verstappen chatter as flattering, positioning it as evidence that rivals recognise Aston Martin’s upward trajectory.
• Verstappen previously stated in Hungary that he will remain with Red Bull for 2026, cooling transfer speculation that included an inflated $1 billion claim.
• Aston Martin highlights Adrian Newey’s leadership, a forthcoming Honda power unit and Lawrence Stroll’s expanded Silverstone campus as pillars of its rebuild.
• The team retains short‑term stability with Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll contracted through at least the end of 2026.
• Reporting traced the rumours to Red Bull’s early‑season dip and talk of performance clauses that were not triggerable due to Verstappen’s championship position.