Max Verstappen’s overheard Ferrari remark: “If they had called me…”. Behind the Scenes: Max Verstappen’s Hidden Interest in Ferrari.

The 2025 Formula One season has only just begun, and despite the on-track reality and the emerging verdicts, it seems destined to revolve around a single common theme until its official conclusion in Abu Dhabi: Lewis Hamilton’s arrival at Ferrari. The blockbuster move of the F1 world, it brings together the most successful driver and the most successful team in history in one stunning union. After years of speculation, this long-awaited partnership became reality last February, fulfilling the dreams of fans and the British driver himself, who had never hidden his desire to don Ferrari red before concluding his record-breaking and illustrious career.

A clear statement of intent

This sudden announcement not only shocked the world and triggered a domino effect in the driver market but also provided Ferrari with various advantages linked to the seven-time world champion—both in terms of driving skill and experience. Beyond the sheer impact of the move, Ferrari used this signing to send a message to its rivals: the team is determined to return to winning ways. This effort began months ago, with Hamilton’s arrival serving as the final piece of the puzzle, following the appointments of Frédéric Vasseur, Loïc Serra, and Charles Leclerc’s contract renewal. A series of moves, combined with the anticipated improvements to the car—though these are yet to materialize given the SF-25’s lack of speed and numerous weaknesses—were meant to steer Ferrari back toward success. That goal remains a possibility, given the long season ahead, and could be within reach thanks to the formidable driver pairing of Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc—arguably the strongest lineup on the grid, capable of maximizing the car’s potential across various scenarios.

However, due to the unpredictable twists of fate, that duo could have looked very different. If Ferrari had chosen a different name—one just as prestigious—to replace Carlos Sainz alongside Charles Leclerc, history might have taken another path.

A missed opportunity?

By opting for an undisputed champion like the former Mercedes driver, Ferrari might have also considered Max Verstappen. Disillusioned with the current situation at Red Bull and drawn to Ferrari’s allure and growth, the Dutchman would have seriously considered an offer from Maranello. According to sources, during a private test at Mugello last year—where Max Verstappen was driving a GT car from his team—he let slip a revealing comment. The four-time world champion allegedly admitted that had Ferrari’s management reached out to his camp, they would have given a potential move to Maranello serious thought.

It is unlikely that Max Verstappen will ever confirm this rumor—in fact, he will probably deny it outright. However, the remark provides insight into both his willingness to seek a fresh challenge outside of Red Bull and the opportunity Ferrari had in the driver market. Instead of forming an “instant team” with an immediate focus on winning, Ferrari could have taken an alternative path, shaping the squad into a long-term project with room for growth.