Max Verstappen Hypercar Question Asked After Ford Discussions

Max Verstappen is set to make his 24-hour race debut this weekend at the Nürburgring, feeding speculation about a future leap into the FIA World Endurance Championship's Hypercar category. The four-time Formula 1 champion, who has openly discussed a desire to compete at Le Mans, confirmed talks with Ford's racing boss about a possible Hypercar program, though a 2027 start is off the table.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's potential shift to Hypercar while still an active F1 driver would be a rare and high-profile crossover, reshaping how top drivers balance multiple disciplines. Ford's entry into Hypercar next year, combined with its existing Red Bull power unit partnership, creates a natural pathway. If Verstappen joins, it could elevate WEC's global visibility and prove that elite F1 talent can succeed in endurance racing without stepping away from grand prix racing.

The details:

• Verstappen has completed multiple NLS rounds at the Nordschleife to prepare for his first 24-hour race this weekend, demonstrating a serious commitment to GT racing.
• Ford's global director of racing, Mark Rushbrook, confirmed discussions with Verstappen about a Le Mans drive with the American marque's Hypercar program, which launches in 2027.
• Rushbrook stated that 2027 is not feasible for Verstappen, but kept the door open for a future attempt while the Dutchman remains in F1.
• Former F1 driver Logan Sargeant, already confirmed for Ford's Hypercar project and competing in LMGT3 this season, backed Verstappen to "kick everyone's ass" in WEC should he make the move.

What's next:

Verstappen's Nürburgring 24H debut this weekend will be closely watched as a test of his endurance racing aptitude. While a Hypercar switch within the next two years looks unlikely, Ford's ongoing partnership with Red Bull keeps the conversation alive. If Verstappen maintains his interest beyond his current F1 contract, Le Mans could become a realistic target later in the decade.