Max Verstappen, the renowned four-time Formula 1 world champion, has recently made headlines not for his performance on the racetrack or his impressive collection of sports cars, but for acquiring an extravagant new personal jet. This luxurious aircraft will assist him in navigating the demanding schedule that the upcoming 2025 Formula 1 season entails. With a staggering 24 Grand Prix races slated for the season, alongside various tests, promotional events, and visits to the Red Bull Racing factory, it’s clear that Verstappen’s travel needs require a significant upgrade.
Previously, Verstappen owned a Falcon 900EX, which had served him well for three years. This jet, which cost approximately €12 million, boasted a range of 8,000 kilometers. However, despite its impressive specifications, Verstappen often found himself needing to make stopovers during long-haul flights, prompting the decision to invest in a new aircraft that would better meet his travel requirements.
Verstappen’s new acquisition is a Falcon 8X, a significant step up from his previous model, with a price tag of around $42 million (equivalent to 40.6 million euros). This high-end jet is not only luxurious but also incredibly practical, accommodating up to 18 passengers and featuring a remarkable range of 12,000 kilometers. This means that journeys such as a direct flight from Paris to Beijing can now be made without the need for refueling—a clear advantage for someone with such a busy travel schedule.
The addition of this modern aircraft has already stirred conversations within the F1 paddock, particularly after a claim by Helmut Marko, an influential figure at Red Bull Racing. Marko suggested that Verstappen had installed a simulator in the jet, allowing him to practice during flights. However, Verstappen has quickly dispelled this rumor, clarifying that his racing simulator is located at his home in Monte Carlo, Monaco, and not onboard his new jet.
Verstappen’s previous Falcon was also known for hosting fellow drivers, with Lando Norris being one of those who occasionally traveled with him. However, the relationship between the two has soured since a notable disagreement during the 2024 Austrian Grand Prix, resulting in Norris no longer accompanying Verstappen on flights.
The upgraded Falcon 8X not only represents luxury and enhanced travel capability for Verstappen, but it also aligns with his status as one of the top athletes in the world. As the highest-paid driver on the grid for the 2025 season, reportedly earning around €65 million, the investment in a premium jet is a reflection of his success and lifestyle.
Inside the Falcon 8X, travelers can expect a world-class experience filled with amenities that enhance comfort and convenience. The aircraft includes features such as a shower and a fully equipped kitchen, catering to the needs of its passengers. For a driver like Verstappen, whose career is marked by high pressures and significant commitments, being able to travel in comfort is essential not just for relaxation but for maintaining peak performance levels.
