Full Breakdown
Ford Discusses Max Verstappen’s Potential Role in Future WEC Hypercar Program
5/9/2026, 5:21:05 AM
Background & Timeline
Ford will launch its first top-class Hypercar in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2027. After a 2026 season limited to customer Mustang entries in the LMGT3 class, the 2027 entry will be an LMDh prototype developed alongside Red Bull Racing, with which Ford supplies power units for Formula 1. A test programme for the Hypercar is slated for late 2024, providing early data before the 2027 season.
- 2026: Customer Mustang entries in LMGT3.
- 2027: Debut of an LMDh Hypercar in the WEC top class.
- Late 2024: Hypercar test programme.
- 2028: End of Max Verstappen’s Red Bull contract.
Data & Statistics
- Max Verstappen: four Formula 1 World Championships.
- Ford’s 2026 WEC effort: Mustang entries in LMGT3.
- 2027 target: LMDh Hypercar debut.
- Hypercar test programme scheduled for late 2024.
- Verstappen’s Red Bull contract expires at the end of 2028.
Key Figures & Groups
- Mark Rushbrook – Director of Ford Performance, overseeing the Hypercar project.
- Max Verstappen – Four-time Formula 1 World Champion with Red Bull Racing, currently contracted through 2028 and slated to race a Mercedes-AMG GT3 in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring.
- Red Bull Racing – Partner in Ford’s 2023-2024 Formula 1 power-unit collaboration and the team for which Verstappen competes.
Official Statements from Ford Performance
Rushbrook confirmed that Ford holds “regular discussions” with Verstappen about a possible Hypercar drive, but any decision will hinge on schedule compatibility and mutual interest. He emphasized that no formal announcement has been made and that the driver’s ability to contest Le Mans without clashing with his Formula 1 program is a key factor.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He’s a racer. He wants to race,” — Mark Rushbrook
- “I think we're just talking about what the opportunity is and if and when it makes sense, and everybody wants to do it, then great.” — Mark Rushbrook
- “One of the great things about Max, is drivers like him don't come along that often, in terms of what he accomplishes on track, right?” — Mark Rushbrook
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources agree that discussions are ongoing but no concrete plan exists. Neither Ford nor Verstappen has issued a definitive commitment, and no timeline for a potential race entry has been confirmed. Details on how a one-off appearance versus a full-season program would be negotiated remain undisclosed.
What’s Next
Ford’s Hypercar test programme, expected later this year, will be the first practical step toward fielding the LMDh in 2027. Observers will watch for any formal announcement regarding Verstappen’s involvement as his Red Bull contract approaches its 2028 conclusion.
