Verstappen Open to 'Dream' Le Mans Partnership with Vettel
Max Verstappen says he would "love" to realize a "little dream" of partnering with Sebastian Vettel to race at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, but only under the strict condition that they have a car capable of winning. The project faces significant scheduling hurdles, with 2026 already impossible due to an F1 calendar clash.
Max Verstappen has expressed conditional interest in teaming up with Sebastian Vettel for a future assault on the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, calling it a "little dream." However, the reigning F1 champion insists any such project must be with a team capable of fighting for outright victory, acknowledging that logistical challenges make an imminent collaboration unlikely.
Why it matters:
A potential Verstappen-Vettel super-team at Le Mans would represent a major crossover event, uniting two of F1's most successful modern champions in endurance racing's toughest test. For Verstappen, it aligns with his stated ambitions beyond F1, while for the retired Vettel, it offers a path back to top-level competition. Their participation would bring immense global attention to the World Endurance Championship and the legendary French race.
The details:
- The Dream Proposal: Sebastian Vettel revealed he and Verstappen have discussed the idea for years, telling ServusTV, "We've already spoken a couple of years ago that if it comes together, we'd drive Le Mans together."
- Verstappen's Condition: When asked about it in Bahrain, Verstappen was enthusiastic but clear on his terms: "I would love to do that, but of course, only if we're able to fight for wins, and you need to be with the right team."
- Logistical Hurdles: A serious Le Mans effort requires months or years of preparation. A 2026 attempt is already ruled out due to a direct date clash with the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix.
- Alonso's Witticism: Two-time Le Mans winner Fernando Alonso, when asked about joining such a champion lineup, dryly noted his perfect record: "Well, I have a 100% record at Le Mans, so if I do it again, they need to be very well prepared."
- Vettel's WEC Experience: Since retiring from F1, Vettel has tested a Porsche Hypercar but has not yet committed to a race program, keeping his options open.
What's next:
While the dream is alive, it remains a long-term project contingent on aligning stars, schedules, and securing a top-tier competitive seat.
- Verstappen is first focusing on his planned 2024 debut in the Nürburgring 24 Hours, a key step in his endurance racing education.
- Vettel's immediate future remains undefined; he has been linked to a Red Bull advisory role but stated any position must "be a challenge that itches somehow."
- Verstappen joked about the timeline, referencing Alonso's longevity: "I heard Fernando is racing until he is 75, so I'm sure we'll find a time and a year to race together."