Max Verstappen is actively exploring opportunities to compete in multiple high-profile endurance races during the 2027 season. The four-time Formula 1 world champion has expressed a clear ambition to expand his racing activities beyond Grand Prix events, with specific targets emerging for the upcoming year.
Among the events on Verstappen’s radar for 2027 are the 24 Hours of Daytona and a return to the Nürburgring 24 Hours. He participated in the Nürburgring endurance classic earlier this season, where his team held a significant lead before a driveshaft issue ended their victory hopes.
Verstappen has indicated that a potential entry into the 24 Hours of Daytona, typically held in late January, would necessitate adjustments to his pre-season training schedule. He confirmed his intention to return to the Nürburgring in 2027, stating it depends on his Formula 1 commitments.
The Spa 24 Hours and the 24 Hours of Le Mans also remain on Verstappen’s long-term wish list. He has already communicated with Spa organisers, requesting that the 2027 event avoid a clash with the Formula 1 calendar to facilitate his participation.
Speculation regarding a Le Mans entry has intensified following Ford’s announcement of its return to the World Endurance Championship in 2027. Ford is Red Bull’s engine partner for the 2026 Formula 1 season, creating a potential pathway for Verstappen.
The broader Formula 1 calendar for 2027 is undergoing significant changes. Stefano Domenicali, Formula 1 President and CEO, confirmed that the official calendar announcement is delayed until autumn 2026 due to ongoing geopolitical uncertainties in the Middle East.
Domenicali has indicated that the 2027 season is expected to feature 24 rounds, with an increase in the number of Sprint race weekends from the current six to potentially ten or twelve.
Notable changes to the Grand Prix schedule include the return of the Portuguese and Turkish Grands Prix. Conversely, the Dutch Grand Prix at Circuit Zandvoort will not be on the calendar after the current 2026 season, and the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix will also rotate off for 2027.
Verstappen’s current contract with Red Bull Racing runs until the end of 2028. However, a performance-related exit clause allows him to depart the team if he is not within the top two positions in the Drivers’ Championship by the summer break.
As of early August 2026, Verstappen is reportedly sixth in the Drivers’ Championship, making this exit clause active for the 2027 season. Red Bull is reportedly attempting to secure Verstappen with a new contract extending to 2029, which would include a salary increase and remove the existing exit clause.
Former Grand Prix winner Juan Pablo Montoya has suggested that the ongoing rumours surrounding Verstappen’s potential departure are a strategic manoeuvre to pressure Red Bull into improving car performance. Montoya believes Verstappen ultimately intends to remain with the team.
‘I don’t think Max wants to leave Red Bull,’ Montoya stated. ‘You’re in one of the best F1 teams, probably the best team in the last 20 years, with Mercedes. You’re in the right place.’
Despite the contractual discussions, Verstappen has maintained his focus on current racing commitments. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has expressed confidence that Verstappen will remain in the sport, citing positive feedback from drivers regarding the direction of the 2027 car regulations.
