Max Verstappen turned the motorsport world upside down with his participation in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring. Unlike in the past, it is rare for an active F1 driver, let alone a four-time world champion, to also focus on other racing classes in between. His Nürburgring adventure may open the door for more drivers to participate in other races. For example, reigning world champion Lando Norris dreams of taking part in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Read more Montoya sees important factor behind Antonelli’s rise: ‘Bono plays a big role’
In a new video from McLaren, Norris describes his position within motorsport. “I feel very privileged to be racing in Formula 1,” he says proudly. “It’s actually my job; I get paid to drive F1 cars. That must be one of the coolest jobs in the world,” he grins. “Besides, everyone dreams of doing something they love.” Yet the 26-year-old Brit has other ambitions. “There are still plenty of other things I want to do,” he continues. “Think, for example, of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. McLaren will also participate there again next year, so maybe that offers opportunities. But I’m still young, so I haven’t planned everything out yet.”
Triple Crown
McLaren recently unveiled the new hypercar with which it will participate again in the WEC from 2027. CEO Zak Brown thereby opens the hunt for the Triple Crown – the ultimate goal is to win the Indy 500, the Monaco GP, and the 24 Hours of Le Mans within one year. Of course, there is plenty of speculation about who will soon be behind the wheel of this racing monster. According to Brown, there are chances for the F1 duo Norris and Piastri. “I don’t think they can participate in the hypercar program,” he admitted last year. “But I have talked to them about Le Mans. They would both love to drive one of our cars.”
Read more Brundle warns Russell: ‘Stop Antonelli’
Interest in Le Mans exists among several Formula 1 drivers, but the reality of the busy racing calendar leaves little room for excursions to other classes. “It is well known that the schedules are difficult, with all the overlapping programs of the different racing classes,” Brown confirmed. “If you move one date, the problem just shifts to another race. I wouldn’t want to be the one who has to set those calendars,” he joked. The American hopes that the various racing organizations will coordinate better in the future. “I think Formula 1 does everything to avoid clashing with Le Mans,” he continued. “In 2026, the Canadian GP already coincides with the Indy 500, but hopefully that only happens once every five years. In the case of Le Mans, they are really keen to avoid collisions.”
Read more Rinus ‘VeeKay’ van Kalmthout aims for success in Indy 500: ‘Top five is achievable’
Read everything about the Canadian GP here
