Lando Norris has stated his desire to mirror Max Verstappen by participating in different racing categories following his time in Formula 1.
Verstappen recently took part in a Porsche GT4 race at the Nordschleife, situated within the Nurburgring Endurance Series, with the aim of acquiring the necessary licence to compete in GT3 races at the ‘Green Hell’.
The four-time F1 champion is scheduled to make his GT3 racing premiere at the Nordschleife this Saturday, driving a Ferrari 296. Verstappen has frequently voiced his enthusiasm for endurance motorsports.
Ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix last weekend, F1 drivers were asked about Verstappen’s Nurburgring experience, and Norris expressed his interest in sportscar endurance racing.
The McLaren driver might have a straightforward path into this area, as the Woking-based team plans to join the 2027 World Endurance Championship, seeking an overall victory at the Le Mans 24 Hours.
“I would be thrilled to,” Norris commented. He has prior experience in the Daytona 24 Hours, having participated alongside Fernando Alonso and Phil Hanson in 2018, a year before he entered F1.
#23 United Autosports Ligier LMP2, P: Phil Hanson, Lando Norris, Fernando Alonso
Photo by: Jake Galstad / Motorsport Images
“I noticed Zak [Brown, McLaren CEO] mentioning McLaren’s participation in Le Mans the other day. That’s something I’d be keen on,” Norris stated.
“I won’t be in Formula 1 indefinitely. I want to explore different avenues and experience life – try new things, basically.
“I intend to make the most of my time in Formula 1. I’m unsure whether I’ll combine it with other races at some point, or wait until I retire from F1 before pursuing other activities.
“I thoroughly enjoyed competing in Daytona, especially alongside Fernando, which was a fantastic experience for me at the time. Whether it’s Le Mans, Daytona, or Sebring, I’m open to trying different things. However, I’m unlikely to participate in oval racing, as it doesn’t appeal to me.”
Norris also mentioned that he would need to find the right moment to compete in other championships, given his ongoing battle with team-mate Oscar Piastri for the 2025 F1 title, which requires his full attention.
McLaren is also anticipated to remain competitive in future championships, provided everything progresses as planned, whereas Verstappen has not been a contender in this year’s title race, despite his four previous victories.
#980 Lionspeed GP, Porsche Cayman GT4 – Max Verstappen, Chris Lulham
Photo by: Nürburgring GmbH
“I commend Max for pursuing such endeavours. He’s in a more advantageous position to do so,” Norris added.
“If he were in contention for a championship, it might not be viewed favourably. However, having already secured four world championships, he has more flexibility than perhaps myself and Oscar currently have.
“Nevertheless, I certainly intend to do the same in the future, as I share Max’s desire to explore different avenues and engage in activities I find enjoyable.”
