Ex-F1 driver says Red Bull hold ‘perfect fit’ in case Verstappen walks away

The four-time world champion’s stance, following comments made over the Suzuka weekend, has set off fresh alarm bells, with the Dutchman making it clear he is weighing up his future amid growing frustration with regulations he has struggled to accept.

On the other hand, the Milton Keynes outfit can take some comfort in knowing it already has a driver showing real promise in Isack Hadjar, and above all Arvid Lindblad, widely tipped by many as the next Verstappen in the making.

Speaking to Vision4Sports, Herbert believes the young British talent could be the ideal in-house solution should the Dutchman ultimately decide to walk away: "You've got Arvid Lindblad, who is another potential fix if Max does leave. I think Arvid has got the right ingredients to be able to fill that gap.

The Colombian pointed to Mercedes’ current situation, highlighting Antonelli’s recent back-to-back victories while Russell has unexpectedly struggled, as a potential opening for a move. He also underlined that Toto Wolff has long made no secret of his desire to bring Verstappen into the team, suggesting the current circumstances could align perfectly for such a switch.

At the same time, Montoya noted that Red Bull are currently lacking pace, and warned that if that trend continues throughout the season, Verstappen is likely to actively explore an exit as soon as possible.