Speaking on the Beyond the Grid podcast, Vettel described Verstappen’s ongoing development as “the scary thing” about the Dutch driver.

The four-time world champion highlighted Verstappen’s ability to keep learning, stay composed under pressure, and maintain focus in critical moments.

“We know he’s good,” Vettel said. “But he’s still improving, he’s still hungry, he’s still willing to learn. I think he’s working very hard behind the scenes as well, and that’s what makes him so strong.

“And of course he’s blessed with a lot of talent on top of that, but even if he’s one of the most talented drivers on the grid, I think ultimately what makes him so strong… it’s always a combination.

“But the key ingredient is his head. In the situations where it matters, he keeps his head, hardly ever makes a mistake, delivers when he needs to, feels the pressure – we all do, I don’t think it’s possible [for anybody not to] feel the pressure – but he’s able to find a space in his head where he’s able to put that to his side and focus on what matters.”

A More Mature Approach

Vettel also noted that Verstappen’s approach has matured over the years.

“He still goes for the impossible gaps and makes them possible, which is great in his skill, but he doesn’t go for all the gaps because he knows they’re not important right now,” he said.

“If he needs to get a move on, an overtake, he’s probably one of the best going through the field quickly, but if he knows ‘I’ve got time and it doesn’t actually matter’, he’s not panicking anymore.”

Vettel’s comments underscore the combination of natural talent and mental fortitude that has propelled Verstappen to the top of the sport.

The Dutchman’s ability to balance risk with composure continues to make him a dominant force on the Formula 1 grid.

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The reigning four-time world champion was linked with a potential switch to Mercedes earlier this year, but the expiry of a clause in his Red Bull contract put any move on hold until at least next season.

With sweeping new regulations arriving in 2026, Verstappen now has the opportunity to assess the competitive order before making any decisions.

Among the possible destinations in the future is Ferrari, a team that has long been linked to the Dutchman, despite its current line-up featuring Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton.

Hamilton’s Late Arrival at Ferrari

Irvine, who partnered Michael Schumacher at Ferrari from 1996 to 1999, believes Hamilton waited too long to join the Scuderia.

“The problem with Lewis, he came a bit too old, but he won seven world championships, so there’s always a price,” Irvine told Sky Sports.

At 40, Hamilton’s first season with Ferrari has been difficult, raising questions about whether the move should have been made earlier in his career.

Irvine hopes Verstappen avoids making the same mistake.

“I would love Verstappen to come to Ferrari. I think the two of them together would be sensational. I hope he doesn’t leave it too late like Lewis did.”

Lessons From Schumacher’s Risk

The former Ferrari driver also reflected on Schumacher’s move from Benetton to Ferrari, a decision that initially cost him championships but ultimately built the foundation for dominance.

“Michael probably gave up two, three, maybe even more world championships to leave Benetton to go [to Ferrari],” Irvine recalled.

“In the first few years, people have no idea how bad it was at Ferrari. Michael knew. There was no point for him. He was so much better than everyone else. He just decided, ‘I’m going to go there. I’m going to see what I can do,’ which was amazing, and he got there.

“But people forget, it took four years. He was always in the vicinity. He was driving the wheels off the thing to try and be there, so it was very easy for it not to happen.”

Schumacher eventually led Ferrari to five consecutive titles, cementing both his legacy and the team’s resurgence.

Could Verstappen Trigger a Similar Shift?

Irvine suggested that Verstappen has the same potential to transform Ferrari in the way Schumacher once did.

“Back in my day, you had Michael come; he was seen as by far the fastest driver. Because of that, Rory Byrne came, Ross [Brawn] came, and that whole team was built around the fact that Michael was another world.

“A bit like Verstappen is now, where if Verstappen went somewhere, he could take a lot of people. Without the whole system together, everyone’s at the same level. It’s tough, Formula 1’s tough.”

He also highlighted the challenges unique to Ferrari.

“It’s very difficult at Ferrari, because they’re on their own in Italy. The British teams are all surrounded by other teams, and there’s cross-pollination. It’s so much more difficult to be on your own in Maranello. That’s it. It’s always more difficult for Ferrari.”

McLaren as an Example of What’s Possible

Looking beyond Ferrari, Irvine praised McLaren for its remarkable turnaround under CEO Zak Brown.

“I’m amazed at what McLaren has done, from where they’ve come from. It just shows you it’s possible. Ron Dennis never thought that [winning a title as an independent] was possible. And Zak Brown is really 10 out of 10. He’s done an amazing job.”

For Verstappen, the decision over whether to pursue Ferrari remains a long-term consideration, but Irvine’s message is clear: if the Dutchman wants to make the move, he cannot afford to wait until his peak years are behind him.

The post Max Verstappen Sent Warning After Turning Down Move to Mercedes appeared first on Formula1News.co.uk.

With the September race now in the books, the team from Woking extends its commanding lead in the Constructors’ Championship, while rivals Ferrari and Mercedes scramble to salvage momentum heading into the final stretch of the calendar.

McLaren’s Year of Perfection

McLaren sits comfortably at the top of the standings with an astonishing 617 points, a margin that illustrates just how far ahead they are compared to the rest of the grid. The combination of performance, strategy, and consistency has allowed the British outfit to transform what began as a tight title battle into a one-sided affair.

The Italian Grand Prix only confirmed what many in the paddock have suspected for months: McLaren has set the standard in 2025. Their package has been quick on both high-speed tracks like Monza and more technical circuits, leaving rivals with little opportunity to exploit weaknesses.

The dominance has sparked debate about whether McLaren could wrap up the Constructors’ title earlier than any team in recent history. With over double the points of second-placed Ferrari, it is increasingly a matter of “when” rather than “if” the championship will be secured.

Ferrari’s Home Race Frustrations

Ferrari entered Monza with high hopes of putting on a show for the passionate Tifosi, but the results underlined the gap between themselves and the leaders. Sitting second in the standings with 280 points, Ferrari has made progress compared to recent seasons, yet McLaren’s runaway form has left them battling for little more than pride.

While podium finishes remain achievable, Ferrari’s struggles in maintaining tire performance and race-day pace have made it difficult to mount any consistent challenge. The Italian GP was symbolic of this wider issue: flashes of speed in qualifying, followed by a race where McLaren quickly pulled clear.

Despite the disappointment, Ferrari remains locked into a fight for runner-up in the championship, with Mercedes lurking just 20 points behind.

Mercedes vs. Red Bull Battle

Mercedes, third in the standings with 260 points, continues to show glimpses of revival but lacks the all-round sharpness needed to consistently challenge for wins. The Italian GP provided yet another example of their fluctuating form, as strong strategy calls were undermined by pace deficits against McLaren and Ferrari.

Red Bull Racing, meanwhile, has endured a difficult season by its high standards. Currently fourth on 239 points, the team has struggled to adapt to the shifting dynamics of the 2025 regulations. Once the dominant force in Formula 1, Red Bull now finds itself battling for scraps while trying to rebuild momentum.

The rivalry between Mercedes and Red Bull for third in the standings is one of the key storylines heading into the final races of the season. With just 21 points separating the two, every result will matter in the fight for bragging rights.

The Midfield Scrap

Further down the order, Williams continues to impress as the standout of the midfield. Their tally of 86 points puts them a clear fifth, far ahead of Aston Martin (62) and Racing Bulls (61). Williams’ resurgence has been one of the season’s most uplifting narratives, driven by smart development and consistent points finishes.

Behind them, Aston Martin and Racing Bulls are locked in a close contest for sixth, with just one point between the two. Both teams are desperate to maximize opportunities in the final races, knowing every place in the Constructors’ standings carries significant financial and reputational rewards.

Kick Sauber, Haas, and Alpine round out the table with 55, 44, and 20 points respectively. For these teams, the Italian Grand Prix was less about podium glory and more about securing valuable points to avoid slipping further behind in the competitive midfield shuffle.

Looking Ahead to Azerbaijan

Attention now shifts to the next race in Azerbaijan, where the tight streets of Baku will present a very different challenge. The long straights could favor teams with stronger power units, while the technical sections will test chassis balance and driver precision.

For McLaren, the task will be to extend their near-insurmountable lead even further. Ferrari and Mercedes will aim to claw back ground, while Red Bull desperately needs a strong result to keep its hopes of a top-three finish alive.

The midfield battle promises to remain fierce, with Williams eager to defend its position as “best of the rest” against determined challengers.

As the 2025 season heads into its final phase, the Italian Grand Prix has made one thing clear: McLaren’s stranglehold on the championship is stronger than ever. The only real question left is how soon they can officially celebrate their return to the top of Formula 1.

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She paired the images with a caption that read: “What was the best thing about your summer?”

The post suggested that her time on the white balustrade was one of the moments she valued most during the holiday season.

Interestingly, Piquet opted not to showcase pictures from her time aboard a superyacht with Max Verstappen, her daughter Penelope, and Verstappen’s child Lily.

Verstappen’s Return to Formula 1

At the same time, Max Verstappen officially returned to business.

The Red Bull driver appeared at the official press conference ahead of the Zandvoort Grand Prix, signaling the end of his vacation.

With his media duties complete, Verstappen now looks to begin free practice on Friday before qualifying on Saturday and racing on August 31.

A Summer of Family Time

Throughout the summer break, Piquet has often documented her time away, posting photos that also featured the reigning champion and her daughter.

Verstappen joined in as well, sharing an image with Lily.

Together, the couple balanced private family time with the occasional glimpse into their holiday for their followers.

The yacht trips, long sunny days, and family gatherings gave Verstappen a chance to step back from the demands of the sport.

Preparing for the Dutch Grand Prix

Verstappen has described the holiday as refreshing and enjoyable.

He stated that he feels fully prepared to tackle the challenges of the home race in Zandvoort.

With expectations running high from the Dutch fans, the reigning world champion will aim to continue his strong season start in front of his home crowd.

The break has allowed him to recharge mentally and physically, ensuring he is in the right frame of mind for one of the most anticipated races of the year.

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Russell has found himself sidelined in the team’s future planning as Mercedes pursues the reigning world champion, sparking speculation that he could be the one to make way.

Verstappen-Russell Tensions Simmer

The pair have had a tense on-track relationship, notably clashing during last year’s Qatar Grand Prix.

Should Verstappen join Mercedes, the partnership could prove combustible.

Teen prospect Kimi Antonelli is also seen as part of the team’s long-term future, further clouding Russell’s prospects.

Brundle Says Russell Deserves Better

Asked about the situation at the British Grand Prix, Brundle didn’t mince words.

“No, I don’t think he is [being treated fairly],” Brundle said.

“I think he’s been hung out to dry a little bit, he’s done a brilliant job of leading the Mercedes team, he’s picked up the mantle from Lewis Hamilton very well.”

“It must be super uncomfortable for him and a bit embarrassing that he’s sitting there waiting.”

Brundle acknowledged Verstappen’s superior speed but noted the challenges he brings.

“It’s a very difficult situation and that’s the crucible of Formula 1, it’s a shark pool out there.”

Russell Remains Composed

Despite the speculation, Russell has maintained composure, supporting the team publicly while continuing to perform on track.

He has called Verstappen’s talent a major asset to any team, opting to focus on his performance amid the uncertainty.

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With a lucrative long-term contract at Red Bull Racing, a growing portfolio of endorsements, and intelligent investments, Verstappen’s net worth has surged well beyond the $200 million mark. His status as the face of Formula 1 in the current era has made him a magnet for both prize money and commercial opportunities.

Massive Salary from Red Bull Racing

Verstappen is currently signed with Red Bull Racing on a contract that runs through 2028. The deal is one of the most lucrative ever seen in Formula 1. As of 2025, his base salary is estimated at around $65 million per year, making him the highest-paid driver on the grid.

This salary reflects his immense value to Red Bull both as a race winner and a global ambassador. Since clinching multiple titles, Verstappen’s pay has steadily increased in line with his growing dominance and star power. His consistent performance and reliability on the track have earned him bonus clauses as well, which can significantly inflate his annual earnings depending on the season’s success.

When including bonuses for race wins, championship points, and Constructors’ Championship contributions, his total yearly income can reach as high as $75 million.

Endorsements and Sponsorship Deals

In addition to his team salary, Verstappen benefits from several high-profile endorsement deals that further add to his net worth. He has become an appealing figure for major brands across various sectors, ranging from automotive and energy drinks to clothing, sportswear, and tech companies.

His long-standing relationship with his team’s title sponsors continues to be a primary source of endorsement revenue. Moreover, Verstappen has signed personal deals with other global brands in recent years, leveraging his image to market everything from racing games to lifestyle products.

These endorsements are estimated to bring in an additional $5 to $10 million annually. As his global influence continues to grow, so too does his value as a brand ambassador.

Verstappen’s Net Worth in 2025

Taking into account his salary, bonuses, endorsements, and investments, Max Verstappen’s net worth in 2025 is estimated to be between $210 million and $220 million.

This figure places him among the wealthiest drivers in the history of the sport. While he has yet to match the total career earnings of icons like Lewis Hamilton or Fernando Alonso, Verstappen’s trajectory suggests he could surpass those figures if he maintains his current form and appeal.

Investments and Assets

Verstappen has not only earned vast amounts of money but has also used it to build an impressive portfolio of assets and investments. He is known to own a luxurious apartment in Monaco, reportedly valued in the range of $15 to $20 million. The location is a favorite among F1 drivers due to tax benefits and proximity to major European race circuits.

He also owns a private jet, which he uses frequently for international travel. This jet, originally acquired from another F1 driver, was customized to suit his preferences and is believed to be worth over $10 million.

Beyond real estate and aviation, Verstappen has shown an interest in motorsport-related investments. He launched Verstappen.com Racing, a personal racing project that supports talent in lower racing categories and also participates in endurance and sim racing events. This initiative reflects his ambition to stay involved in motorsport beyond Formula 1 and build a legacy beyond his own driving career.

Luxury Lifestyle

Verstappen enjoys the spoils of his success but is known for keeping a relatively low profile compared to some of his peers. Despite his wealth, he often emphasizes his focus on performance over partying. Still, he owns an enviable collection of luxury cars, including high-performance Aston Martins, Ferraris, and Lamborghinis.

He also spends considerable time with family and friends in Monaco and occasionally shares glimpses of his private life through social media. Although his image is tightly managed, he remains a popular figure with millions of followers and an active fan base that continues to grow each year.

Comparison to Other Drivers

While Lewis Hamilton still holds the top spot in terms of career earnings, Verstappen has overtaken him as the highest-paid active driver as of 2025. His annual earnings exceed Hamilton’s new contract at Ferrari and those of other top-tier drivers such as Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris.

Fernando Alonso remains among the richest F1 drivers overall due to decades of earnings and investments, but Verstappen is now closing that gap quickly. With several more years likely ahead at the top of the sport, Verstappen is poised to challenge for not just racing records but also financial ones.

Future Outlook

Given his age and current dominance, Verstappen’s financial future looks exceptionally bright. He’s still in his prime, both as a driver and as a public figure, meaning his marketability is unlikely to diminish anytime soon. If he continues to win championships and maintain his appeal, his net worth could cross the $300 million mark by the time his current contract ends.

Additionally, if he chooses to transition into team management, motorsport business ownership, or high-level endorsements post-retirement, Verstappen could continue to grow his fortune well into the future. His smart brand building and careful financial planning so far suggest he’s well on track to do so.

Conclusion

As of 2025, Max Verstappen net worth is estimated at over $210 million, driven by a massive Red Bull Racing salary, lucrative bonuses, high-value endorsements, and smart investments. His wealth is a reflection of his unmatched success on the track and a carefully curated personal brand off it.

With several prime racing years still ahead, Verstappen’s financial ascent is far from over. Whether breaking records in Grand Prix wins or setting new benchmarks in driver earnings, he continues to redefine what it means to be a modern Formula 1 superstar.

The post Max Verstappen Net Worth and Salary in 2025 appeared first on Formula1News.co.uk.

The Red Bull driver was hit with a 10-second time penalty and three penalty points after colliding with George Russell late in the race.

Although both drivers completed the race, Verstappen dropped to 10th in the official results, with the stewards deeming him responsible for the incident.

Verstappen’s License Now at 11 Points

The penalty has pushed Verstappen’s FIA superlicence points total to 11—just one short of the 12-point threshold that triggers a one-race suspension.

Any infraction in Canada or Austria could see the reigning champion sidelined.

Verstappen has already received multiple penalties in the past year, including two points for a collision with Lando Norris in Austria, two for forcing Norris off in Mexico, and two for a crash with Oscar Piastri in Abu Dhabi.

He also accrued points for infractions in Brazil, Qatar, and now Spain.

Championship Hopes Slip Further

Verstappen’s weekend in Barcelona dealt a heavy blow to his already slim title hopes.

With only one point gained and rivals unaffected by a new technical directive aimed at curbing McLaren’s advantage, Red Bull’s struggles were evident.

Meanwhile, competitors like McLaren have managed to maintain their pace, leaving Verstappen’s campaign increasingly uphill.

The Dutchman now faces a delicate balancing act, needing clean races ahead to avoid triggering a suspension that could further derail his season.

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The story suggested failure to close the gap to McLaren could cost the long-serving team boss his role.

Driver Response

Verstappen expressed bewilderment when asked by Sky Italy.

“Honestly, I have no idea where they come from, to be honest,” he said.

“People ask me questions about that and I’m like: ‘Honestly, I really don’t know who even puts that in the world.’”

He stressed the squad’s focus on performance rather than off-track chatter.

Contractual Security

Horner, at the helm since 2005, holds a contract through 2030.

Sources close to the energy-drink giant dismissed any immediate threat, noting competitive dips are inevitable across a season.

Bigger Picture

Red Bull currently trails McLaren in both championships but continues to introduce updates and plan a major aerodynamic push for mid-summer.

Verstappen reiterated his own commitment, saying he intends to honour a deal running until 2028 despite outside links to Mercedes or Aston Martin.

Moving Forward

Insiders believe shareholder Chalerm Yoovidhya remains supportive provided the team stabilises results and maintains marketing momentum.

A strong Imola haul would likely quiet rumours until at least the European leg concludes.

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The four-time champion initially raced under the pseudonym “Franz Hermann” before confirming his identity on social media.

Veteran Voices Safety Fears

Former Williams driver Ralf Schumacher used Sky Germany’s Backstage Pit Lane podcast to question the wisdom of the outing.

“If I were his team boss, I would have asked him if he was out of his mind,” Schumacher said.

“I don’t think it’s a good idea to do this on the Nordschleife.

“The DTM was banned there in the past because it was simply too fast, and now the GT3 cars are incredibly fast.

“Things can happen so quickly. Racing in a GT3 car, okay, I can understand that, but why did it have to be the Nordschleife?”

Contractual and Sporting Implications

Top drivers often face clauses restricting dangerous extracurricular driving, and insiders suggest Red Bull management was “surprised” rather than furious.

Verstappen runs his own GT3 outfit, Verstappen.com Racing, and views occasional appearances as brand-building exercises.

The Dutchman will return focus to Formula 1 this weekend, sitting third behind the McLaren duo of Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris.

The Nordschleife Factor

At 20.8 kilometres with more than 150 turns, the track dubbed “The Green Hell” remains motorsport’s ultimate challenge.

While industry demonstration days are common, full-speed runs carry risks even for elite professionals.

Broader Debate on Driver Freedom

Schumacher’s critique reignites perennial tension between commercial commitments and personal freedom for modern F1 stars.

Teams balance marketing value against the nightmare of losing a driver to injury outside grand-prix machinery.

Outlook for Red Bull

Verstappen’s Imola form will ultimately determine whether the episode fades or fuels further scrutiny.

Strong points could render the Nürburgring jaunt a colourful footnote; a poor weekend might prompt tougher internal policies.

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The timing meant the Brazilian model and partner of four-time world champion Max Verstappen could enjoy Mother’s Day almost immediately after giving birth.

Family sources had predicted Lily’s arrival between the Miami and Monaco race weekends, but the newborn’s “natural speed” echoed her parents’ motorsport pedigree.

Instagram Montage Celebrates Three Generations

Piquet posted a heartfelt montage on Instagram that paired photos of herself as a baby with images of her eldest daughter Penelope and brand-new Lily.

She captioned one story, “I want to continue to be a role model for my daughter,” underscoring her desire to inspire Penelope as the family grows.

The social media update coincided with Brazil’s Mother’s Day on 11 May, adding cultural resonance to the celebration.

Verstappen’s Thoughts On A Racing Future

While fans were quick to speculate about Lily’s potential career on track, Verstappen has remained guarded, saying he does not want to push his firstborn into racing.

Friends say the Dutch driver wishes his daughter a childhood free from the intense scrutiny that surrounds Formula 1.

Looking Ahead

With Verstappen focused on defending his championship and Piquet juggling two young children, the couple’s logistical calendar remains as tightly managed as any grand-prix weekend.

Supporters will be watching to see whether Lily appears at circuits later in the season, but for now the family is savouring quiet moments at home.

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