Max Verstappen Chooses Fifth F1 Title Over Le Mans Victory

During the Dutch TV special “An Evening with Max Verstappen,” Red Bull’s four‑time champion was asked to choose between a fifth Formula 1 World Drivers’ Championship and a win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Verstappen said the title comes first, adding he could still try Le Mans later but a fifth crown would become harder to win.

Why it matters:

• Verstappen’s preference underscores that F1 remains his primary career goal despite a long‑standing interest in endurance racing.
• The comment adds pressure on Red Bull, whose RB22 has struggled with reliability and sits ninth after three rounds under the new 2026 regulations.
• It hints at a possible future crossover, as more F1 stars are eyeing Le Mans as a post‑F1 challenge.

The details:

• The question was posed on “An Evening with Max Verstappen,” aired ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix.
• Verstappen, 28, replied: “I would always choose the fifth world title. When I’m older I can still do Le Mans. That fifth title becomes more difficult.”
• Red Bull’s RB22 has been “torrid” this season; despite a new Ford‑backed power unit, the team is ninth in the standings.
• Verstappen has previously floated a Le Mans entry with fellow driver Fernando Alonso.

What's next:

• Red Bull will focus on fixing the RB22’s reliability and aerodynamic issues before the next European round.
• Verstappen’s Le Mans comment may spark rumors of a 2027 endurance debut, potentially with a hybrid prototype squad.
• If he eventually races Le Mans, his involvement could inspire other F1 drivers to explore endurance racing, further blurring the line between the two series.