Max Verstappen could soon embark on a new legendary endurance adventure. Ford has confirmed discussions with the Red Bull driver about a future program at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
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For several years, Max Verstappen has openly expressed his desire to participate one day in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Passionate about GT racing and endurance, the four-time F1 world champion is already multiplying experiences outside the paddock, notably through sim racing and various projects related to GT3.
But despite this obvious interest, the Dutchman has yet to realize this dream. The main reason remains the Formula 1 calendar, often incompatible with the Le Mans event. In 2026, for example, the 24 Hours of Le Mans will take place on the same weekend as the Spanish Grand Prix held at the Barcelona circuit.
A frustrating situation for Verstappen, even if this date conflict is relatively rare. Before that, the last clash between the two events was in 2016.
Despite these obstacles, Ford seems determined to keep an eye on the Red Bull champion for the future.
Ford confirms discussions with Verstappen
Mark Rushbrook, director of Ford Performance Motorsport, has acknowledged that talks have already taken place with Verstappen regarding a potential endurance program.
“Yes, of course” he confirmed to Motorsport Netherlands when asked about possible discussions with the Red Bull driver.
The American official did not hide Ford’s admiration for Verstappen, both for his performances in F1 and for his involvement in other motorsport disciplines.
“We love Max. We like what he does in Formula 1, on the track. But we also appreciate the person he is off the circuits, explains Rushbrook. He is someone passionate about GT3, about developing young drivers through sim racing and about everything related to motorsport.”
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Ford and Red Bull are already partners through the engine project developed for the 2026 F1 regulations. A collaboration that could therefore open other perspectives in the future.
An Hypercar project in the works
Alongside its commitment in LMGT3 in the World Endurance Championship, Ford is currently preparing its entry into the Hypercar category starting in 2027.
An ambitious program that could perfectly match Verstappen’s desires, as he clearly wants to aim for overall victory at Le Mans rather than just a symbolic participation.
“We regularly discuss with him the possible opportunities in endurance, including in Hypercar, continues Rushbrook. He wants to race at Le Mans and fight for overall victory, but as long as he remains fully committed to Formula 1, the calendar makes that complicated most of the time.”
Ford remains cautious for now, but the idea of a joint project definitely seems to exist.
“We are simply trying to see what opportunities may arise and when it would make sense for everyone” concludes Rushbrook.
If Verstappen ever decides to reduce his involvement in F1 or to take a break in endurance, Ford could therefore become a strong ally to try to conquer the biggest race in the world.
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