Verstappen Leaves the Door Open to Le Mans with Ricciardo

Ricciardo said on Formula 1's Beyond The Grid podcast that he could make a one-off return to the Le Mans 24 Hours. The Australian driver implied that he could get back in a car only for this race, rather than returning for a full season. When asked about his choice of teammate, he put Verstappen first, the two having raced together at Red Bull between 2016 and 2018.

Ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix, Verstappen told reporters that Ricciardo's choice of him was a smart decision. However, he added that, because of his Formula 1 programme and projects outside the championship, he does not have time in his schedule for endurance races.

The Dutch driver stressed that if he were to do this kind of job, he wants to do it properly and well prepared. He said there should be a chance to win against rivals who focus on this work throughout the season. In his view, the Le Mans project has no meaning unless these conditions are met.

Verstappen's main focus right now is the demanding weekend at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez track in Mexico City. He explained that because of the high altitude they would normally balance this effect with wing settings, but this time they will only be running one rear wing. He said this will significantly reduce the car's downforce and make the race more difficult.