Recent reports speculated that Aston Martin might poach Red Bull starlet Max Verstappen. While the team is already in talks with Adrian Newey, Verstappen was its new target. However, the struggling Green squad needs more than Newey to lure in a triple world champion. The Dutchman has already clarified the factors that will determine his future. Sadly, Aston Martin doesn’t tick those boxes.
However, Lawrence Stroll might have a realistic chance of poaching the Mercedes superstar. The astute team owner has an ambitious plan to make Aston Martin an F1 elite. Thus, cashing in on the young British talent might help them get a head start.
George Russell Is The Realistic Target For Aston Martin
George Russell could be a more realistic option for Aston Martin. The team currently has Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso. While Alonso is an F1 veteran, Stroll somehow survives the heat of the sport. Therefore, the team needs someone fierce to step up. Thus, Russell, who is getting overlooked at Mercedes, might make a move to the Silverstone. Earlier, all the limelight was on Lewis Hamilton’s departure, and Toto Wolff was trying to lure in Max Verstappen. Now, all the attention is on Kimi Antonelli, touted by Wolff as the next superstar. The Italian prodigy has been impressive in his F2 stint and might soon join the Silver Arrows.
Moreover, Russell has consistently demonstrated his value, but his relative inexperience holds him back. However, the 26-year-old British racer is among the F1 elites. He consistently performs well and is a skilful driver at high speeds. Unfortunately, he missed out on two race wins, one due to technical failure in Silverstone and the other due to a DQ in Spa.
Additionally, Russell’s biggest reason for being a potential Aston Martin candidate is his willingness to work on a project. The Briton would love to have a project built around him as he becomes the key face of the team. Therefore, the Green Army would consider George Russell an option to be the leader.
Why Is Max Verstappen Not An Option For Silverstone?
The very factor that might attract Russell is the same one that causes Verstappen’s disinterest. The Dutchman has opened up about his future plans, and building a team from scratch is not one of them. Verstappen is rather interested in having a short but sweet run in F1. He wants to compete for the top position continuously. Therefore, the only chance Aston Martin will have of signing the Dutch racer is when they have established themselves in the F1 world.
Moreover, despite the potential, the team has yet to prove its pedigree on the biggest motorsport stage. Further, the team lacks ruthlessness and endures a slump throughout the season. As a result, Max Verstappen may pass on Lawrence Stroll’s ambitious project. However, they could still consider George Russell as an alternative.