Daniel Ricciardo has expressed a desire to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans alongside former Red Bull Racing teammate Max Verstappen. Verstappen acknowledged Ricciardo’s interest, stating that any such endeavour would require thorough preparation and a genuine opportunity for victory.
Ricciardo, who departed Formula 1 after the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, revealed his Le Mans ambition during an appearance on the ‘F1 Beyond the Grid’ podcast. He named Verstappen as his preferred co-driver for the endurance classic.
Verstappen, speaking ahead of the Mexico City Grand Prix, responded to Ricciardo’s comments with a pragmatic outlook. He indicated that while the idea is appealing, his current commitments in Formula 1 and other ventures preclude him from dedicating the necessary time for such a project.
The Dutchman has a documented interest in endurance racing, frequently participating in virtual 24-hour events. He holds a Platinum driver grading, the highest classification for professional racers in sports car categories.
Verstappen had previously considered competing at Le Mans with his father, Jos Verstappen, but Jos has since shifted his focus to rallying.
Ricciardo’s motivation for a Le Mans return stems from a wish to conclude his motorsport career on his own terms. He views a one-off endurance race as a potential ‘nicer form of closure’ following his F1 exit, rather than a full-time championship commitment.
Since leaving the F1 grid, Ricciardo has maintained a low profile but has taken on an ambassadorship role with Ford. Ford is set to return to the premier sports car race, which could align with Ricciardo’s aspirations.
His renewed passion for competition was partly rekindled by attending the Indianapolis 500 in 2026.
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is a cornerstone event in the World Endurance Championship (WEC), featuring the Hypercar class as its top-tier category.
Drivers in the Hypercar class are subject to specific regulations, including a maximum driving time of 14 hours for any individual driver during the 24-hour race. Gold and Platinum-graded drivers, such as Verstappen, are not subject to minimum drive time requirements.
Additionally, a minimum reference weight of 78kg is enforced for Hypercar drivers, with ballast added for those below this threshold.
The current Formula 1 season is concluding with a demanding schedule, including multiple triple-headers. The series is presently in the midst of a triple-header encompassing the United States, Mexico, and Brazilian Grands Prix.
Another triple-header is scheduled to follow, featuring races in Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi.
This intense calendar has raised concerns regarding driver welfare. Kimi Antonelli, the current F1 championship leader, missed media obligations for the Mexico City Grand Prix due to a viral illness.
Mercedes confirmed Antonelli’s illness, and the FIA granted him an exemption from mandatory media duties to allow for rest.
Valtteri Bottas also missed media day in Mexico City due to illness, as confirmed by the Cadillac Formula 1 Team.
Paddock physicians have highlighted the physiological impact of such a condensed schedule, noting that nine races in 11 weeks are pushing drivers and team personnel to their physical limits.
Kimi is feeling under the weather today as he recovers from a viral illness. As a precaution, the FIA has excused him from his mandatory media duties to give him the chance to rest ahead of the weekend. We expect him to be back tomorrow.
Verstappen himself emphasized the importance of listening to one’s body and prioritizing rest amidst the rigorous F1 calendar. He stated a preference for maintaining fitness naturally rather than relying on technological tracking devices.
