Max Verstappen in direct Fernando Alonso address as Red Bull teammate talk escalates

Max Verstappen has made his feelings clear about the possibility of F1 rival Fernando Alonso joining Red Bull.

Verstappen finds it "strange" that his team would consider hiring Alonso as his teammate. This potential move has become a serious consideration in recent weeks. Despite nearing 43 years of age, Alonso's strong performances since joining Aston Martin have put him in contention for top seats in 2025.

Mercedes certainly have a seat available that the Spaniard could vie for. However, he would likely prefer a Red Bull car, which could offer him the opportunity to compete for his first drivers' title since 2006. The seat currently belongs to Sergio Perez and is his to lose. But if Red Bull decides to make a change, it seems Alonso is a genuine contender - a prospect that appears to baffle Verstappen. In an interview with De Limburger, Verstappen was asked about the possibility of Alonso joining him next year. He suggested that his Red Bull team should be considering younger, more long-term options.

Verstappen stated: "I don't care who sits next to me. I also said that to the team. I always believe in myself and in my opinion I am the boss of everyone. But if you ask me, I would find it strange to sign a 42-year-old driver.

"Red Bull has always had the tradition of training young drivers itself. Signing Sergio Perez was a departure from that trend, especially with a 42-year-old driver. I can get along with Fernando - that's not it. But I also look at the future of the team. Ultimately it is up to them to determine who drives where."

Verstappen has himself been linked with a move elsewhere in recent weeks, though he insists he plans to see out his contract which runs until the end of 2028. Regardless, Toto Wolff has