Verstappen Eyes Endurance Racing as Ford Partnership Evolves
Max Verstappen has expressed an ambition to participate in major endurance races, including the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Rolex 24 at Daytona. His plans are set against the backdrop of an upcoming partnership with Ford, which will provide technical expertise for Red Bull’s 2026 power unit. Furthermore, Ford is re-entering the Hypercar category at Le Mans in 2027, a move that aligns with Verstappen’s aspirations.
In a recent Ford Performance video, Verstappen shared insights on the upcoming 2026 F1 regulations. "I think it’s important to be a bit in the middle of [the 2026 regulations]," he stated, noting that while the new regulations may not appear thrilling at first glance, he remains optimistic. "Let’s see, wait and see. Maybe it is fun."
Verstappen highlighted the excitement surrounding Ford’s involvement, stating, "What is exciting is that Ford is stepping in with us, and to see how our partnership can develop." He pointed to Ford’s extensive involvement in racing, expressing a clear interest in driving a Hypercar, as well as competing in various GT events like the Nordschleife and the 24 Hours of Spa.
When questioned about competing in Daytona, Verstappen affirmed his desire to tackle all major endurance events: "All of them. I really want to do all of them."
Moreover, Verstappen reflected on his adaptability in driving styles across different vehicles, attributing his success to his ability to adjust rather than relying solely on car design favoring his strengths. "I adapt to what I got. It’s not what I like, it’s just what I have," he explained.
The Dutch driver emphasized his pursuit of continuous improvement, revealing a perfectionist streak. "If I can come out of the car and I can say to myself ‘that was pretty good’, it’s never good enough," he concluded, referencing a particularly challenging qualifying session in Jeddah as a prime example of his high standards.
As the motorsports community looks towards the future, Verstappen’s evolving career trajectory and the strategic partnership with Ford signal significant developments on the horizon in both Formula 1 and endurance racing.
