Verstappen’s close friend decisively sidelined by Alpine

The 6 Hours of Fuji takes place this coming weekend, marking the sixth race of the 2026 World Endurance Championship season. There were already rumors that da Costa would miss the weekend, and those have now been confirmed. Initially, Alpine was set to field four drivers for the race in Fuji. The Portuguese driver already had to find a new seat for 2027, as Alpine is leaving the Hypercar class.

In his statement, Da Costa wrote that he’s disappointed that he can’t continue with Alpine. "For strategic reasons Alpine have decided to race with 2 drivers in 6 Hours of Fuji. I wish the whole Alpine team and the #35 all the best in Fuji. Im proud to have worked and helped the team achieve success with the highlight of a podium at the last round."

It is well known that Felix da Costa is a close friend of Verstappen and a member of the Dutchman's inner circle. Da Costa was previously a Red Bull junior and witnessed firsthand how Verstappen joined the team. The two have remained close ever since and even went on vacation together this summer.

The Portuguese previously discussed what makes Verstappen so special. “As Max grew up and he became the superstar that he is now, we kind of kept it going. Max is special in a good way. He is so impressive with what he has become and the person that he still is,” the Portuguese driver began.