Max Verstappen: Endurance racing plans for 2027 & special memories of Baku

The Formula 1 calendar for the coming season has been finalised for just over a week now. Racing fans who are interested in more than just Formula 1 will no doubt have noticed that the prestigious endurance races do not clash with Formula 1: The 24-hour race at the Nürburgring takes place between Montreal and Monaco. The 24 Hours of Le Mans is between Monaco and Portimão. And the 24 Hours of Spa is between Portimão and Silverstone.

As is well known, Max Verstappen competed in this year’s 24-hour race at the Nürburgring, thrilling not only Formula 1 fans but also die-hard endurance racing enthusiasts. He ultimately suffered an unfortunate retirement due to a mechanical failure – and announced that he would like to try again in 2027, provided the racing calendar allows it. And it seems as though the schedulers have listened to him.

These are the endurance races Verstappen is planning

In the run-up to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku, when asked about endurance races he’d like to tackle in 2027, Verstappen said: “The Nürburgring and Spa, probably. Le Mans, probably not. That’s not on my list at the moment. I already said after the race on the Nordschleife that I’d like to drive there again. So, if I have the chance to prepare properly and everything goes well. I know there’s no clash with other commitments, but it still has to fit into the schedule; if it does, then I’ll do it. And Spa is also an exciting option.”

Max Verstappen und Daniel Ricciardo 2018 unterwegs in Aserbaidschan

Foto: Red Bull Content Pool

First up, though, is Formula 1 – in Baku. Asked about his best moments from the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Verstappen became nostalgic when recalling one of the early Azerbaijan races: “I went for a bit of a drive around the area with Daniel (his then team-mate Ricciardo, ed.), in older cars, sort of like a rally. Just to see a bit more of the country. I thought it was really cool; we had a brilliant day. We also had a lovely meal here in the city. So yes, I have some very fond memories of this place. I’d say it’s a bit less chaotic compared to some other Grand Prix events. I really appreciate that.” It’s a bit of a surprise – most drivers talk about Baku being particularly chaotic. But I suppose it’s all a matter of perspective and inner calm.

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When asked, he also revealed his favourite memories on the track: naturally, his two race wins in 2022 and 2025. And by the way, click here for the video of Verstappen and Ricciardo’s off-road trip, which took them to a mud volcano.