Ford confirms talks with Max Verstappen about hypercar role in WEC

Ford will return in 2027 to the hyper class of the World Endurance Championship. Verstappen’s name is coming up more and more often, given his fondness for endurance racing and the link with Ford via Red Bull Racing. The four-time world champion has repeatedly indicated in recent years that, alongside Formula 1, he wants to do more long-distance races, while next week he will also make his debut in the 24h Nurburgring.

Speaking to GPblog, Rushbrook, director of Ford Performance, is asked whether Verstappen might be a logical candidate for Le Mans in the future. “That would be a great combination,” Rushbrook responds immediately. The Formula 1 calendar naturally plays a role. The 24 Hours of Le Mans and several other major endurance races regularly clash with Grand Prix weekends. “We'll see what the schedules look like for 2027 or beyond,” the American says.

In recent years, Verstappen has made no secret of his interest in endurance racing. The Dutchman is driving GT cars outside F1 more and more, and has already raced several times this season at the Nurburgring in GT3 machines. He also showcased his speed last year in a Ford Mustang GTD during a test day at Circuit du Grand Sambuc.

That collaboration also appealed to Ford. “Max is an incredible driver, he's an incredible person,” says Rushbrook. “We love the relationship with Formula 1.” He also refers to earlier projects between Verstappen and Ford. “We love opportunities like when he drove the Mustang GTD at Grand Sambuc. There are a lot of other projects he's done with us. It's great to work with him. He's a great person.”

Meanwhile, Ford continues to work on its return to the very top of endurance racing. From 2027, the brand aims to compete with a hypercar in the WEC and fight for victory at Le Mans. Verstappen has previously indicated that this race is high on his wish list, provided his Formula 1 schedule allows it. The same goes for the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps.