Verschoor Joins McLaren After Reflecting on a Turbulent F2 Career
After a challenging F2 career marked by budget struggles, Richard Verschoor is joining McLaren's driver development program. He reflects on years of uncertainty, which he says ultimately fueled his motivation and resilience.
Richard Verschoor is joining McLaren's driver development program after a tumultuous five-season journey in Formula 2. The Dutch driver, who secured his best-ever championship result (3rd) this year, reflected on a career plagued by budget issues and uncertainty, which he says ultimately forged his resilience and motivation.
Why it matters:
- Verschoor's signing adds a proven, race-winning talent to a top team's driver pipeline.
- His story highlights the harsh financial realities of junior motorsport, where even skilled drivers can struggle for opportunities.
- For McLaren, it's a strategic move to develop a gritty, motivated driver who has consistently overcome adversity.
The details:
- A Career of Uncertainty: Verschoor revealed his F2 path was far from smooth. He stated he "got kicked out" after 16 races in his first season due to a lack of budget and spent years unsure if he could even compete in the next race.
- Ending on a High Note: Despite the challenges, his final season was his strongest. Verschoor finished 3rd in the 2025 F2 standings with four wins, expressing pride that he could finally "show my true potential."
- Proactive Move to McLaren: The opportunity stemmed from his own initiative. After the Jeddah race, Verschoor approached McLaren CEO Zak Brown directly, a move he believes "kickstarted" the conversations that led to his contract.
What's next:
Verschoor will now integrate into the McLaren system, focusing on his development as a driver within the team's program. While his specific 2026 racing plans are yet to be announced, this association with a top-tier F1 team provides a crucial platform for the 24-year-old to leverage his hard-earned experience and pursue a future at motorsport's highest level.