Juan Pablo Montoya has disclosed the $100 million factor behind Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen‘s decision to stay with Red Bull despite interest from Mercedes. The Dutch driver’s future had been uncertain after Mercedes renewed their pursuit, but Verstappen ultimately recommitted to his current team.
Montoya suggests that Red Bull’s recent struggles affected Verstappen’s negotiating power, with Mercedes reportedly offering a lower salary than anticipated, encouraging the champion to remain loyal to Red Bull.
I don’t think Max [Verstappen] had a choice. If I was negotiating with Max last year when he was winning the world championship, let’s say, it would have cost $100m,
Montoya stated to CoinPoker.
He added that the contender’s current situation in a less competitive car has lowered his value:
“This year he’s in a struggling car. The number could be $50m. Maybe that was the reason he stayed. Maybe Max thought he was going to get $100m and whoever was speaking to him would have the upper hand, knowing that Max would want them more than they want Max.”
Last year, the number had to be like over the moon to get Max. I think this year, if you’re negotiating for Max, you can negotiate. Tell him, if you want to be here, this is the number. Toto [Wolff] could offer Max half what he would have needed to last year.
Red Bull’s Struggles and Verstappen’s Challenging Season
After securing four consecutive world championships with Red Bull, Verstappen faces obstacles that may prevent him from securing a fifth title this season. McLaren has outperformed Red Bull significantly in 2025, and Verstappen’s recent ninth-place result in Hungary highlights the team’s struggles.
Red Bull has also undergone significant changes, including the replacement of Christian Horner, who had served as team principal for two decades, with Laurent Mekies taking over the leadership role. Verstappen has acknowledged these adjustments are necessary for the team to regain competitiveness.
Currently trailing championship leader Oscar Piastri by nearly 100 points, Verstappen’s patience with Red Bull may wear thin if the team’s performance does not improve soon, raising questions about his future.
Implications for Verstappen and Red Bull’s Future
The $100 million negotiation dynamic reveals the complex financial and competitive factors influencing Verstappen’s decisions amid Red Bull’s transformation period. If Red Bull cannot restore its form quickly, it risks losing its star driver, who may seek opportunities elsewhere if the downturn persists into the next season.
As the championship progresses, Verstappen’s commitment to Red Bull remains critical for both the team and his career trajectory, with fans and analysts watching closely how these developments unfold.