Verstappen rules out Le Mans 2027 and targets Spa and Nürburgring endurance races
While the recently unveiled 2027 Formula 1 calendar has opened a window for drivers to explore the world of endurance racing, Max Verstappen has already drawn a line in the sand regarding the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Despite the strategic scheduling of off-weekends that would allow for participation, the four-time world champion has ruled out a debut at the legendary French classic for the 2027 season.
Scheduling Conflicts Rule Out Le Mans
The 2027 Le Mans 24 Hours is slated for 12-13 June, positioned between the Monaco and Portugal Grand Prix rounds. However, the logistical demands of such an undertaking proved to be the deciding factor. Verstappen noted that the extensive preparation required—including a mandatory test day for rookies that clashes directly with the Monaco GP weekend—makes the venture unfeasible.
“Nurburgring and Spa, probably. Le Mans, not. That's not on my list for now,” Verstappen stated during his time in Baku.
The sentiment was echoed by Fernando Alonso, a two-time Le Mans winner, who suggested that a future collaboration might be possible if the F1 calendar allowed for more breathing room. “I don't think next year that will happen, but maybe in the future. That would be nice. Max [needs to be] a little bit more free on the calendar,” Alonso commented.
Endurance Ambitions: Spa and the Nürburgring
While Le Mans remains off the table, Verstappen is showing significant interest in other major endurance events. The SRO-organized Spa 24 Hours appears to be a viable option, especially after organizers moved the official two-day test to 15-16 June to avoid any F1 scheduling conflicts.
Verstappen expressed optimism about the Belgian classic, noting: “I know there is no clash, but it still needs to work out in my schedule, and then I'll do it. And Spa is an exciting option to do it.”
Furthermore, the Dutchman is eager to return to the Nordschleife. Following a previous outing where mechanical issues cost him a lead position, he is keen to settle scores at the 24 Hours of Nürburgring. “I said already after the race on the Nordschleife that I wanted to go back,” he confirmed.
Lando Norris and the Hypercar Path
The interest in endurance racing extends to other F1 stars like Lando Norris. While Norris has recently been testing McLaren’s brand-new Hypercar at Portimao, he remains cautious about balancing his two disciplines.
“All my focus is still on F1 and will always be. I'll never sacrifice something in F1 for something else,” Norris insisted, though he admitted that a future Le Mans outing remains a possibility if the timing aligns.
Simone Scanu
He’s a software engineer with a deep passion for Formula 1 and motorsport. He co-founded Formula Live Pulse to make live telemetry and race insights accessible, visual, and easy to follow.