Ford confirms Verstappen talks for WEC hypercar; Leclerc defends 2026 racing rules

Ford has confirmed discussions with Max Verstappen about a potential hypercar drive in the World Endurance Championship, while Charles Leclerc has offered a contrasting view on the 2026 F1 regulations, defending the racing against Verstappen's 'Mario Kart' jibe.

Why it matters:

These two stories highlight diverging paths for F1's top talents. Verstappen's potential move to endurance racing could reshape his career beyond Formula 1, while Leclerc's defense of the current regulations signals a split in driver opinion on the sport's direction.

The details:

• Ford's WEC plans: Ford Performance director Mark Rushbrook confirmed talks with Verstappen, calling a partnership 'a great combination.' Ford will debut its hypercar in 2027, and Rushbrook hinted at schedule flexibility for Verstappen to race at Le Mans.
  • Verstappen has increasingly participated in GT and endurance events, including the Nürburgring 24 Hours, and has expressed desire to race at Le Mans.
• Leclerc vs. Verstappen: After the Miami GP, Leclerc disagreed with Verstappen's claim that 2026 regulations produce 'artificial' racing. Leclerc said overtaking is 'really good' when cars have similar systems, and called the tweaks 'a step in the right direction.'
  • Leclerc finished P8 in Miami after a 20-second penalty but focused on the racing quality.

What's next:

Verstappen's Le Mans ambitions could clash with F1 schedules, but Ford is open to finding a solution. Meanwhile, the 2026 regulations will continue to be debated as drivers adapt. Leclerc's outsider stance may gain traction if more drivers find the racing improved.