The Hypercar division of Ford is set to enter the World Endurance Championship next year, and Mark Rushbrook, the head of the company’s motorsport division, expressed his desire for Max Verstappen to compete in their vehicle eventually.
Ford’s presence in Formula 1 has been re-established this year through a collaboration with Red Bull Racing. This alliance involves both entities working together on the design and manufacturing of power units for Red Bull and its affiliate squad, Racing Bulls.
Beyond F1, Ford maintains an active role in various other racing series, such as the WEC. Currently, in the LMGT3 category, their involvement is restricted to providing customer teams with the Mustang; however, starting in 2027, the manufacturer plans to enter the premier endurance racing division with an LMDh prototype.
Verstappen, a driver for Red Bull, has previously demonstrated considerable enthusiasm for endurance motorsport and is scheduled to participate in the Nurburgring 24 Hours next week behind the wheel of a Mercedes-AMG GT3.
Considering Verstappen’s passion for diverse forms of racing, it prompts inquiry into whether Ford has engaged in discussions with the four-time Formula 1 world champion regarding an opportunity to pilot their upcoming LMDh.
“Absolutely,” stated Rushbrook, the director of Ford Performance, during a private conversation with Motorsport.com Netherlands. “We hold Max in high regard. We appreciate his performances in the Formula 1 car, especially on the circuit.”
“Our admiration extends to him off the track as well. He is a remarkable individual, equally as impressive as his driving skills. We value his dedication to GT3 racing, as evidenced by his participation, and his efforts in nurturing drivers through simulated racing leading to their track debuts.”
“Consequently, we maintain ongoing conversations with him concerning potential avenues for increased involvement in sportscar racing, encompassing the Hypercar category.”
Verstappen himself has also expressed enthusiasm. “He is inherently a competitor. His desire is to race,” Rushbrook explained.
Future Arrangements Remain Undetermined
At present, Verstappen’s commitment to Red Bull extends until the conclusion of 2028, ensuring his calendar is packed for the foreseeable future. Rushbrook conveyed that “nothing” is currently scheduled for the immediate term. “We have no announcements to make,” he added with a grin.
Rushbrook stated that a hypothetical Hypercar appearance for Verstappen would be contingent on numerous elements. “He wishes to compete at Le Mans and vie for the overall victory, but in most years, his timetable prohibits it, wouldn’t you agree? While he is a dedicated Formula 1 competitor, a schedule clash typically occurs most seasons now.”
“My belief is that we are simply exploring the potential and if, at a suitable time, it aligns with everyone’s intentions, then it would be excellent.”
Ford is engaged in “ongoing conversations” with Verstappen concerning Hypercar prospects.
Photo by: Red Bull Content Pool
Verstappen’s Prospective Contribution
Should the occasion arise for Verstappen to drive Ford’s hypercar, a vehicle scheduled for its testing phase later this year, Rushbrook anticipates his contribution to the initiative would be immensely significant.
“A remarkable aspect of Max is the rarity of drivers of his caliber, concerning his achievements on the circuit, correct?” Rushbrook remarked. “However, it’s the method by which he achieves them that truly stands out.”
“Particularly this year during our time in Barcelona [for the F1 shakedown]. Listening to his radio transmissions while he was on the circuit, evaluating his newly built car, and then his return after completing, based on the duration, 30, 40, or 50 laps.”
“The level of specificity in the feedback he provides to the engineers far surpasses the utility of all the raw data they collect.”
“It’s a synergistic relationship; both elements must integrate. His sheer mental aptitude and capacity for vehicle development, racing, and fine-tuning are extraordinary. Incorporating a driver of his caliber into a program, even if for a single event, holds considerable importance.”
