Ford confirms Verstappen talks for 24 Hours of Le Mans

Ford has confirmed it has held discussions with Max Verstappen about a potential future appearance at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, with conversations stretching back more than three years.

Mark Rushbrook, Ford's global director of racing, revealed the talks ahead of Saturday's 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, confirming the American manufacturer's interest in securing the four-time F1 champion for its endurance programme.

Why it matters:

A Verstappen Le Mans entry would be one of the biggest crossovers in recent motorsport history, following the trend of F1 drivers competing in top-level endurance racing. Ford's return to the Hypercar category in 2027, combined with its existing Red Bull partnership for F1 power units, makes this a plausible long-term project.

The details:

• Rushbrook told The Athletic: "I would love to see that, yes. But a lot of things need to align."
• Talks began when the Red Bull partnership was first announced three years ago, with both sides "looking for the right opportunity."
• Verstappen has expressed growing interest in sports car racing, including forming his own team and debuting at the Nürburgring 24-hour race next weekend.
• The Dutchman has previously stated his desire to compete at Le Mans and challenge for overall victory.
• Ford returns to the WEC's premier Hypercar category in 2027 with a two-car entry, potentially offering a seat.
• However, Rushbrook ruled out 2027 for Verstappen's debut, but suggested it could happen while he remains active in F1, "depending on schedules."
• Verstappen is under contract with Red Bull through 2028, though he has questioned his long-term F1 future.

Historical context:

Fernando Alonso was the last active F1 driver to race at Le Mans in 2018, winning for Toyota. Nico Hulkenberg won outright with Porsche three years prior. A Verstappen entry would reignite the trend of F1 stars crossing disciplines.

What's next:

Ford's Hypercar programme is on a separate development path from the Red Bull-Ford F1 power unit, but the partnership provides a natural link. If schedules align and Ford's 2027 entry proves competitive, Verstappen could become the first active F1 driver to tackle Le Mans since Alonso. Rushbrook's comments confirm the door is open — but for now, it remains a long-term ambition rather than a firm plan.