Fernando Alonso has calmed the driver market by signing the “longest contract” in his career with Aston Martin. This move leaves Mercedes with one less prospect for 2025. It is now down to Kimi Antonelli, Carlos Sainz, and reigning champ Max Verstappen. On different days, speculations from different spheres within the paddock claimed that all 3 were equally strong contenders for the 2025 seat. But, Team Principal Toto Wolff has reportedly confirmed Max Verstappen’s salary, and that will put Lewis Hamilton’s to shame.

Earlier in the week, it was reported that the Red Bull driver was covertly in talks with Mercedes and RB Advisor Helmut Marko was aware of it. Verstappen swapping in for Hamilton at Mercedes would be the most ironic move, considering their rivalry. But with cracks developing in the Red Bull relationships and Mercedes predicting an upward move in 2026, it could be a perfectly timed transfer.

Toto Wolff, who has been overly nice to Verstappen in recent times, has reportedly approved the 3-time champion’s salary internally. Moreover, the amount decided is more than Wolff paid Hamilton. “Allegedly, the salary that costs Verstappen has already been approved internally,” Michael Schmidt reported for AMuS. “The current world champion is said to be more expensive than Lewis Hamilton, including all success bonuses.”

With the contract amount confirmed, all that is left for the Dutchman is to put pen to paper. But not so soon. F1 Supremo Bernie Ecclestone believes that the Christian Horner case is finally settling and Verstappen will have no intentions of leaving.

Bernie Ecclestone gives his verdict on Max Verstappen’s Red Bull Exit rumors

The Horner investigation did not derail Red Bull’s on-track performance. But the controversy blemished the leadership of the Milton Keynes outfit and F1’s overall image. After the case peaked, it plateaued, and things are now returning to being peaceful. Former F1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone has revealed that Horner confided in him about his marriage.

“It’s time for peace and Christian has informed me that everything is going great with Geri too,” Ecclestone told the Daily Mail. Moving on to Verstappen’s contract situation, and the rumors surrounding it, he added: “Max seems destined to stay.”

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In an ideal situation, Verstappen wouldn’t leave the only team that he has driven for in F1. But the situation isn’t ideal, and rumors of his exit continue even after 3 consecutive World Championships.

Read More: John Elkann Officially Inducts Lewis Hamilton Into Ferrari With an ‘Ambitious’ Letter