Fernando Alonso has opened the door to a potential return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans, suggesting he could even share a car with Formula One rival Max Verstappen. The two-time F1 champion, who won Le Mans in 2018 and 2019, spoke about the prospect during the Barcelona Grand Prix weekend.
Alonso's Endurance Racing Plans
When asked about a return to endurance racing, Alonso said: "Indy? No, it's not really on my mind right now. And Hypercar, I don't know. It's not something I have firmly in mind either." He added: "I'd like to do the Dakar, and I'd like to win the Dakar one day. The challenge itself is what appeals to me. The triple crown is also very attractive, but so is the Dakar, because if you manage to win in Formula 1, endurance racing and rallying, that would also be something with very few precedents."
Alonso, who also competed in the IndyCar Series during his F1 hiatus, emphasised his love for the challenge of Le Mans. "I like the challenge. But Hypercar too, and the 24 Hours of Le Mans was a really beautiful experience for me. Maybe one day I'll do it again, especially if it's with Verstappen," he said.
Verstappen's Endurance Crossover
Verstappen has already dipped his toes into endurance racing, competing at the 24H Nurburgring in recent months. Speculation has mounted that Le Mans could be next for the reigning F1 champion, though a timeline remains unclear. Ford Racing boss Mark Rushbrook confirmed that discussions have taken place about Verstappen joining a Le Mans program. "We would love to see that. A lot of things need to align for that to happen, but that would of course be incredible for us, for the sport," Rushbrook said. When asked whether Verstappen would need to end his F1 career first, Rushbrook replied: "Depending on the schedules, it could be during [his F1 career] or both [during and after his F1 stint]. Discussions go back three-plus years. It's just looking for the right opportunity with the right programs."
Le Mans has been a successful venue for F1 drivers, with Nico Hulkenberg winning in 2015 and Alonso claiming back-to-back victories in 2018 and 2019.
