Max Verstappen’s Verstappen Racing has officially signed Dries van Langendonck, a 15-year-old Belgian driver, to its development programme. The announcement was made on July 16, 2026, marking Verstappen’s first direct involvement in nurturing junior talent. Van Langendonck will continue his association with the McLaren Driver Development Programme.
Verstappen Racing will provide additional support and guidance to Van Langendonck as he progresses through the junior single-seater categories. This includes access to Verstappen Racing Pro Simulation resources.
Verstappen expressed his confidence in the young driver’s potential. He stated, ‘I am impressed by the steep progress that Dries has made during his career and the talent he has shown both in karting and in his first steps in open formula racing.’
The four-time F1 champion added, ‘After getting to know Dries and his family, I’m convinced that all the signs for becoming a great future driver are there.’ Verstappen and his management team aim to assist Van Langendonck in reaching Formula 1.
Van Langendonck, who hails from Zolder, joined McLaren’s programme in July 2024. He has achieved significant success in his junior career, including seven karting championship titles.
He clinched the Formula Winter Series title with nine wins from fifteen races earlier this year. Currently, Van Langendonck leads the standings in the 2026 British Formula 4 Championship, following a double victory at Circuit Zandvoort last weekend.
Van Langendonck acknowledged the significance of this dual support. He stated, ‘Verstappen Racing provides the support to take me to the next level in my career and marks an important step on my path to Formula 1 as the ultimate goal.’
He also noted, ‘To be able to learn from such an experienced driver as Max and to have the support of his professional management team, alongside that of McLaren Racing, is really amazing.’
In related news concerning emerging talent, Arvid Lindblad, an 18-year-old British-Swedish driver, made his Formula 1 debut with Racing Bulls this season. Lindblad is the sole rookie on the 2026 grid.
Lindblad has shown promising form in his rookie year, securing points finishes in several races. He finished ninth in the recent Belgian Grand Prix, utilising a new upgrade package on his Racing Bulls car.
