Ricciardo Eyes Le Mans Comeback With Verstappen

Daniel Ricciardo is eyeing a one-off Le Mans drive with former Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen. Out of racing since the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, Ricciardo says the endurance classic could offer a return without a full season.

Why it matters:

A Red Bull reunion at Le Mans would draw major attention and give Ricciardo a send-off he did not get in F1. It would also pair one of F1’s most popular drivers with a four-time world champion—though both say any entry must be competitive.

The details:

• Ricciardo told F1’s Beyond the Grid podcast Verstappen “would be high on the list,” adding: “Give the people what they want.”
• He floated Sebastian Vettel as a third driver, calling it “a nice little Red Bull reunion.”
• Ricciardo said his view has changed. A year ago he swore he would never wear a helmet again; now he wants to finish “on my terms.”
• Verstappen welcomed the idea but said he lacks time for proper preparation. “If I want to do it, I want to do it properly,” he said; they have spoken privately.

What’s next:

Verstappen has ruled out Le Mans for 2027 and mentioned the Nurburgring and Spa 24 Hours as alternatives. He has also discussed a link-up with Fernando Alonso, but nothing is confirmed. For now, Ricciardo’s idea is a conversation—not an entry.