Ford Racing Targets Max Verstappen for Future GT Projects
Ford wants to secure Max Verstappen for its GT-racerij and hypercar programs, though any potential driver switch cannot happen before 2028 due to existing contracts.
Verstappen currently drives a Mercedes-AMG GT3 in GT competition through his own team, Verstappen Racing, and holds a contract with Mercedes that runs through 2027. Consequently, Mark Rushbrook, Global Director at Ford Racing, acknowledged that the manufacturer must wait until at least 2028 before it can launch a formal recruitment effort to put the Dutch driver behind the wheel of a Ford Mustang GT3 or a World Endurance Championship hypercar. Of course, we want to have the best drivers,
Rushbrook told De Telegraaf regarding the manufacturer’s racing projects and a possible future arrival of the driver. So for us, it would certainly be interesting, let me put it that way.
Weighing Red Bull Powertrains Performance Against Chassis Weaknesses
The technical partnership between Ford and Red Bull centers on the new power unit regulations, but internal assessments highlight a split between engine strength and chassis performance. Speaking to Sky Deutschland and reported by RacingNews365, former Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko noted that while FIA ADUO measurements indicate the Red Bull Powertrains-Ford internal combustion engine is the strongest on the grid, the complete power unit package still lags slightly behind Mercedes when factoring in the electric motor, battery, and software.
Marko pointed to the car’s chassis as the team’s true early-season achilleshiel. The Red Bull RB22 failed to match winning pace until an upgrade package arrived in Baku late in the year, transforming a car that initially struggled into a race winner.
Contrasting Road Cars and Racing Commitments
Outside the Formula 1 paddock, Verstappen’s garage reflects little direct connection to his employer’s Detroit lineup. Autoblog noted that the four-time world champion drives an Audi RSQ8 ABT for daily errands and an Aston Martin Valkyrie in Monaco, and he has yet to be spotted driving a Ford Mustang in his personal time.
This separation extends to the race track. While Ford participates in the World Endurance Championship and competes at the 24 Hours of Le Mans with hypercars—an arena that holds strong appeal for Verstappen—the driver remains committed to Mercedes machinery in GT3 racing.
Frequently Asked Questions
When could Max Verstappen realistically start driving for Ford outside of Formula 1?
Any potential collaboration in GT racing or endurance events would happen on his earliest in 2028. Verstappen remains under contract with Mercedes-AMG for GT3 competition through the end of 2027, as reported by Formule1.nl.
What specific role does Ford play in Red Bull’s Formula 1 power unit?
Ford operates as a partner for Red Bull Racing, manufacturing twelve specific components for the RB22, according to Autoblog.
What racing car does Max Verstappen currently use in GT3 competition?
Max Verstappen is active in GT3 racing with a Mercedes-AMG GT3 through his own racing team, Verstappen Racing.
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