Ford confirms Le Mans talks with Max Verstappen as hypercar entry nears

Ford has confirmed it held talks with Max Verstappen about a potential Le Mans 24 Hours entry, fueling speculation over the Dutchman’s long-term plans beyond Formula 1. The revelation comes just days before Verstappen’s first Nürburgring 24 Hours appearance and amid his ongoing frustration with F1’s 2026 regulations.

Why it matters:

A Le Mans campaign would mark a major shift for Verstappen, who has repeatedly voiced a desire to tackle endurance racing. Ford’s return to the World Endurance Championship in 2027 gives the four-time champion a natural pathway, potentially while still racing in F1. The move could redefine his career legacy and add star power to the hypercar class.

The Details:

• Confirmed talks: Ford Racing boss Mark Rushbrook told DailySportscar.com at the Spa WEC round that discussions with Verstappen began around the time Ford’s Red Bull technical partnership was announced in early 2023.
• Timeline: A 2027 Le Mans entry is “highly unlikely” because Ford’s hypercar debut that year would be “taking on too much.” Rushbrook left the door open for a later appearance, either during Verstappen’s F1 career or after it.
• Verstappen’s motivation: The 28-year-old warned earlier this season he could walk away from F1 over the 2026 rules. The FIA has since made adjustments, but his Le Mans interest remains genuine.
• Ford’s hypercar program: The car will be built on an Oreca LMP2 chassis with a naturally aspirated 5.4-liter V8 engine. Drivers already signed include Logan Sargeant, Seb Priaulx, and Le Mans winner Mike Rockenfeller.
• Precedent: Current F1 drivers Nico Hülkenberg (2015) and Fernando Alonso (2018/19) have won Le Mans while still active in F1. Verstappen originally planned a joint entry with Alonso and his father Jos, but Jos later withdrew.

What’s next:

While Ford insists 2027 is too soon, Rushbrook’s language suggests a 2028 or later campaign remains plausible. For now, Verstappen’s focus stays on Red Bull and F1, but the Le Mans door is wide open—and Ford “would love to see” him behind the wheel.