Montoya suggests this played a role in Verstappen staying with Red Bull

In Hungary, Max Verstappen put an end to rumours about his future with Red Bull Racing. The four-time world champion announced at the time that he would stay with the Austrian racing team for the 2026 season.

Earlier this year, GPblog could report on the two deciding factors behind Verstappen's decision. One was completed with the dismissal of Christian Horner ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, the other connects to sporting performance.

On the other hand, Montoya has a different theory.

Juan Pablo Montoya shared his opinion on Verstappen's decision in a conversation with a betting site. "I don't think he had a choice,” began the Colombian. “If I was negotiating with Max last year when he was winning the world championship, let’s say, it would have cost $100m.”

According to the former F1 driver, the value of the Dutchman has dropped significantly. "This year he’s in a struggling car. The number could be $50m.”

This, Montoya suggests, could explain Verstappen's decision. “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 could offer Max half what he would have needed to last year,” says Montoya.