Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has confirmed a new collaboration with McLaren, supporting 15-year-old Belgian racer Dries van Langendonck through his Verstappen Racing team. Van Langendonck, a junior karting world champion, is currently leading the British F4 championship and has already won the Formula Winter Series.
Van Langendonck's Career and Family Ties
Van Langendonck has been a member of the McLaren driver development programme for two years. His father, Frank, was once a karting teammate of Max's father, Jos Verstappen, rekindling the families' relationship. The teenager graduated to single-seater cars last year and competes against drivers two or three years older.
Verstappen's Support and Goals
Verstappen Racing, which competes in virtual and real-life racing, will provide simulator support and management. Verstappen stated: "I'm impressed by the steep progress that Dries has made during his career and the talent he has shown both in karting and in his first steps in open formula racing. After getting to know Dries and his family, I'm convinced that all the signs for becoming a great future driver are there. Therefore, my management team and I will, with the simulator support of Verstappen Racing Pro Simulation, assist Dries to reach the ultimate goal of Formula 1."
Van Langendonck's Reaction
Van Langendonck expressed gratitude: "To be able to learn from such an experienced driver as Max and to have the support of his professional management team, alongside that of McLaren Racing, is really amazing. I am very grateful. I will keep pushing to maximise my performances while doing what I like best: racing."
No Move to McLaren for Verstappen
Despite the collaboration, Verstappen's manager Raymond Vermeulen said his client prefers to honour his full Red Bull contract, though talks with McLaren have occurred. The collaboration does not involve a driver move for Verstappen.
