Sebastian Vettel teases Le Mans superteam bid with Max Verstappen

Sebastian Vettel has teased the prospect of a tantalising Le Mans tie-up with fellow four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen.

The German revealed he has talked with Verstappen about potentially teaming up together to tackle the legendary 24 hour race at some point in the future.

Vettel, who like Verstappen won four world titles with Red Bull, retired from F1 at the end of the 2022 season and has kept a relatively low-profile since, making only a handful of public appearances at grands prix and other sporting events.

But speaking to Sky Germany, the former Toro Rosso, Red Bull, Ferrari and Aston Martin driver said: “I am also in regular contact with Max, and we talked a few years ago about how, if the opportunity arises, we would drive Le Mans together.”

Verstappen was asked about potentially racing alongside Vettel at Le Mans, with the Dutchman replying: "Yeah, yeah. I would love to do that. But, of course, only if we are able to fight for wins. You need to be with the right team.
 
"So it's a bit difficult to say at the moment when this can happen. But I mean, I heard Fernando's going to be racing until he's 75 anyway. So I'm sure we'll find a time and a year to race all together.”

Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso, already a 24 Hours of Le Mans winner, said he would also be keen to join the pair if the team was “very well prepared".

Verstappen hopes to race in Nurburgring 24 Hours

Verstappen made a winning start on his GT3 race debut last year, and the Red Bull driver is now targeting competing in the Nurburgring 24 Hours this year.

Verstappen’s hopes have been boosted after the NLS made a major calendar change that specifically benefits him, however he is yet to confirm his participation.

"I want to do it. We are working on it to make it happen, but I cannot confirm it yet,” Verstappen said.

"But it's great from the organisers that they changed the date [of the preparation race]. Because I think if I do it, I need one race in preparation compared to guys that have been doing it for a while and have a bit more experience. Also, for me, doing it in a new car that I've not driven there at the Nordschleife, I think you need a race just to learn the procedures.

"Even for me doing a pitstop, doing a driver change, I mean, I normally don't do that. So, all these little things, I just want to prepare well for then potentially participating in the 24 Hours."