Max Verstappen names the one driver he would choose as team-mate above almost everyone else
Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has revealed the one driver he would most like to share a team with, stating that there is a single rival he would prefer over “99 per cent of the others” if the opportunity for a special racing project ever arises.
Despite being just 28 years old, Verstappen has already established himself as one of the most successful drivers in Formula 1 history. Since making his debut as a teenager, the Dutchman has amassed multiple world titles, countless race victories, and a reputation as one of the most complete drivers the sport has ever seen. Yet, in contrast to some of his contemporaries, Verstappen has been open about the fact that he does not intend to remain in Formula 1 deep into his forties.
Verstappen has previously said that he does not see himself racing for as long as figures such as Fernando Alonso or Lewis Hamilton, both of whom have continued competing well beyond the age at which many drivers choose to step away. Alonso, in particular, is a striking example of endurance and longevity in the sport. The two-time world champion is set to turn 45 during the 2026 season and holds the record for the most Formula 1 race starts in history.
Although Alonso’s last race victory came back in 2013 at his home Spanish Grand Prix, and his world titles date back to 2005 and 2006, the veteran Spaniard continues to demonstrate his class. During the 2025 season, Alonso outperformed his Aston Martin team-mate Lance Stroll in qualifying at every single one of the 24 race weekends, underlining that age has done little to diminish his speed or racecraft.
It is Alonso’s experience, versatility, and relentless competitiveness that appear to have caught Verstappen’s attention. Speaking about potential future ambitions beyond Formula 1, Verstappen admitted that if he were ever to pursue success in the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans, Alonso would be his first choice as a team-mate.
Verstappen hinted that there is something uniquely appealing about the idea of sharing a car with Alonso, describing him as the driver he would choose over almost everyone else in the paddock. While Verstappen did not explicitly name every alternative, his comments made it clear that Alonso stands in a category of his own when it comes to respect and admiration from the Dutchman.
The mention of Le Mans is particularly significant. Verstappen has long expressed an interest in racing outside Formula 1, with endurance racing high on his list of ambitions. The 24 Hours of Le Mans, one of the most iconic events in global motorsport, represents a very different challenge compared to F1. Success at Le Mans requires not only outright speed, but also consistency, adaptability, technical understanding, and the ability to work seamlessly with team-mates over an entire day of racing.
Alonso, notably, has already conquered that challenge. The Spaniard won the 24 Hours of Le Mans twice with Toyota, cementing his status as one of the most versatile drivers of his generation. That proven endurance pedigree, combined with his F1 experience, likely plays a major role in Verstappen’s admiration.
For Verstappen, the idea of a “special project” outside Formula 1 is becoming increasingly realistic. Alongside his full-time F1 career, he is heavily involved in sim racing, regularly competes in virtual endurance events, and has spoken openly about his desire to race GT cars and prototypes in the future. These interests suggest that Verstappen’s motorsport ambitions extend far beyond the confines of Formula 1.
His comments also reinforce the sense that Verstappen’s time in F1, while still potentially spanning several more seasons, will not last indefinitely. Rather than chasing records for longevity, Verstappen appears more motivated by meaningful challenges and personal fulfilment. Teaming up with a driver like Alonso in an event as prestigious as Le Mans fits perfectly with that mindset.
While such a partnership remains hypothetical for now, the prospect of Verstappen and Alonso joining forces would capture the imagination of motorsport fans worldwide. Two of the most formidable competitors of their respective generations, united by a shared hunger for racing excellence, could form one of the most formidable driver line-ups endurance racing has ever seen.
For now, Verstappen remains focused on his Formula 1 commitments, but his admiration for Alonso offers a fascinating glimpse into how he views greatness in motorsport — not just measured by titles and wins, but by longevity, adaptability, and an enduring passion for racing.
