Max Verstappen has confirmed he will not make his Le Mans debut in 2027 despite the Formula 1 calendar not clashing with the iconic endurance event. The Red Bull driver revealed his decision during the media session ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku.
Over the past 12 months, Verstappen has diversified his racing exploits, founding Verstappen Racing and competing three times at the Nurburgring Nordschleife, including a win on his NLS9 debut last September. The natural next step would be Le Mans, but he has shut the door on it for at least next year.
“Nurburgring and Spa probably, Le Mans not,” he told media including Motorsport Week. “Yeah, that’s not on my list for now.”
Verstappen's last GT3 race at the Nurburgring was at the 24 Hours Nurburgring in May. Mechanical issues denied him and teammates Jules Gounon, Lucas Auer, and Daniel Juncadella victory. Nevertheless, he is eager to return stronger.
For 2027, Verstappen is targeting a return to the Nordschleife and possibly the 24 Hours of Spa. “I said already after the race in the Nordschleife that I wanted to go back,” he added. “So, if it allows me to prepare well and it all works out – I know there is no clash – but if it starts to work out in my schedule, then I’ll do it. And Spa is an exciting option to do it.”
Heading into the Baku weekend, Verstappen sits sixth in the drivers' standings, 147 points behind leader Andrea Kimi Antonelli. It's a significant gap, but with a long season ahead, he still has chances to improve his position.
The decision to skip Le Mans 2027 shows Verstappen's focus on readiness and optimal performance. Nurburgring and Spa are priorities due to his existing experience and solid team. Le Mans, despite its prestige, is not on his radar for now.
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