Verstappen Targets Bathurst 1000 After Secret Supercar Test

Max Verstappen has officially placed the Bathurst 1000 on his racing bucket list following a recent secret test in an Australian Supercar. The four-time world champion hinted at a potential "wildcard" entry at Mount Panorama while firmly rejecting moves to NASCAR, IndyCar, or the World Rally Championship.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's potential participation in Australia's premier touring car event would be a massive coup for the Supercars championship and a fascinating crossover for F1 fans. With Red Bull strengthening ties to Ford and Triple Eight Race Engineering, the logistical barriers for a one-off appearance are rapidly disappearing, promising a high-profile spectacle at one of the world's most challenging circuits.

The details:

• The "Maybe Bathurst" Tease: During a Red Bull social media video, Verstappen admitted to driving a Supercar recently, stating, "It was a lot of fun." When pressed about a competitive future, he specifically namedropped the iconic event.
• Corporate Synergy: This interest aligns perfectly with Ford's return to F1 as Red Bull's power unit partner. Red Bull also backs the Ford-aligned Triple Eight Race Engineering team, creating a clear pathway for a Verstappen entry.
• The Secret Test: Details of Verstappen's recent test drive are expected to be the centerpiece of Ford's season launch in Detroit.
• Selective Interest: While open to Supercars and GT racing—where he recently launched his own team—Verstappen flatly ruled out a switch to NASCAR, IndyCar, or the World Rally Championship.

What's next:

While nothing is officially signed, the pieces are falling into place for a blockbuster appearance. Fans should keep an eye on Ford's upcoming announcements in Detroit for more clues on Verstappen's involvement with the brand's racing portfolio beyond Formula 1.