Frederic Vasseur jokes that he’d be ‘thrilled’ to sign 26-year-old F1 driver to Ferrari

Follow us on Google Discover

Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur has joked that he would be thrilled if Red Bull driver Max Verstappen joined the team.

There’s plenty of speculation currently circulating about the futures of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz, but it would still be a huge surprise to see the Dutchman make the switch any time soon.

Speaking to the press, via Corriere dello Sport, Vasseur was asked about the prospect of bringing in the three-time world champion.

After every team retained their driver line-ups for 2024, plenty of change is expected next year.

That could end up being the case at Ferrari as well, with Charles Leclerc reportedly offered a new long-term contract.

It leaves Carlos Sainz in a precarious position with the Spaniard keen to re-sign with the team but Ferrari looking to keep their options open.

There could be a host of top drivers available for a move and many would be tempted by the opportunity to drive for the Italian team.

Frederic Vasseur was asked about whether he’d be happy to welcome Max Verstappen to Ferrari.

While a seat could be available for the 26-year-old, he’s on a long-term contract at Red Bull and they’re not going to be in any mood to let him go.

While Verstappen is open to racing in other series in his career, it’s hard to see him departing the Austrian team for another F1 outfit any time soon.

Vasseur jokes he’d love Verstappen at Ferrari

Asked about whether he’d welcome the Dutchman to the team, Vasseur said: “All ten team managers would be thrilled to have him, but I think he has a contract until 2045 (laughs, in fact, Max is signed by Red Bull until 2028).

“But let’s not waste energy talking about it, let’s focus on ourselves.”

Vasseur is right to dismiss any speculation about Verstappen ever joining Ferrari.

At this stage of his career, it would make no sense to even consider leaving Red Bull, especially considering their domination.

However, very few Formula 1 drivers ever stay with the same team for the entirety of their careers.

Even Michael Schumacher who was synonymous with Ferrari started at Benetton and finished his career with Mercedes.

Verstappen may one day choose to leave Red Bull for a new challenge or if they’re no longer the dominant force on the grid, but currently he’ll be eyeing up title number four in 2024.