Max Verstappen says he wants to compete in all major endurance races in motorsport at one stage, including Le Mans’ top categories and Daytona’s Rolex 24.
Ford will provide technical expertise related to the 2026 power unit as part of its partnership with Red Bull and will return to Le Mans hypercar class in a year. Verstappen says he remains open-minded about what it’s like to drive the New Generation of Fromla 1 Car, but is also motivated by the potential opportunities that Ford Link could open.
“I think it’s important to be in the middle of the 2026 regulations,” Verstappen said in a Ford performance video. “From the outside, personally, it doesn’t look the most exciting, but on the other side it looks like, “Look, wait, let’s see.” Maybe, honestly, it’s fun.
“Of course, from our side, what’s exciting is the exciting bit about it, to see how Ford is intervening with us and how our partnership can develop.
“Even today they are involved in so many race projects, and of course they’re back in Le Mans in hypercars. Of course (I fantasize about it) – I certainly like the GT3.
Verstappen repeated when the race at Daytona was placed on him.
And Verstappen says he enjoys the need to change his driving style into something that is needed by the machine. He added that his ability to get quick in Formula 1 is due to his traits, not his design.
“I adapt to what I get, it’s not something I like, it’s something I have because that’s the fastest way to go around the track.
“Of course (it feels good to receive praise), but I’m not doing it to show people what I can. I’m doing it to get the most out of myself. I’m probably a perfectionist, and that’s not good enough.
“I had a pretty good lap. Last year, my first run came back to the box in Jeddah, qualifying and third quarter. Honestly, I’m not sure if I can do this again.”