Lando Norris Expresses Desire to Follow Max Verstappen into Endurance Racing

Lando Norris, the talented McLaren driver, has recently expressed his enthusiasm for exploring other racing disciplines beyond Formula 1. In a candid conversation, Norris indicated that he would be thrilled to mirror the journey of Max Verstappen, who has recently taken steps into the world of endurance racing. This revelation comes on the heels of Verstappen’s participation in the Nurburgring Endurance Series, where he raced a Porsche GT4 to obtain the necessary license to compete in GT3 races at the iconic Nordschleife circuit.

Max Verstappen’s Endurance Racing Ambitions

Max Verstappen, a four-time Formula 1 World Champion, is set to make his debut in GT3 racing at the Nurburgring, where he will pilot a Ferrari 296. His longstanding passion for endurance motorsport has been evident, and this latest venture marks a significant milestone in his racing career. Verstappen’s enthusiasm for endurance racing has garnered attention, especially among his fellow drivers, including Norris.

During a recent media session ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Norris shared his thoughts on the allure of endurance racing. He indicated that he is keen to explore this segment of motorsport, acknowledging the excitement and challenges it presents. The McLaren driver has already dipped his toes into endurance racing; in 2018, he participated in the prestigious Daytona 24 Hours alongside renowned drivers Fernando Alonso and Phil Hanson before fully committing to his F1 career.

The Future of Lando Norris in Racing

Norris articulated a clear vision for his future, emphasizing that while he enjoys his time in Formula 1, he is not planning to remain in the sport indefinitely. He stated, “I would love to [race in endurance events]. I’m not going to be in Formula 1 forever. I want to go and do other things and live my life – try other things, you know.” This sentiment reflects a growing trend among F1 drivers who are seeking diverse racing experiences to broaden their horizons.

With McLaren’s strategic involvement in the World Endurance Championship beginning in 2027, Norris sees a potential pathway to participate in iconic events like the Le Mans 24 Hours. “I saw Zak [Brown, McLaren CEO] spoke about it the other day with Le Mans as well,” Norris mentioned. “I would love it.” The prospect of representing McLaren in such prestigious events excites him, as it aligns with his desire to compete in various racing formats.

The Allure of Endurance Racing

Endurance racing is distinct from Formula 1 in several ways, offering a unique set of challenges that appeal to many drivers. The endurance format tests not only the speed of the cars but also the stamina and strategic acumen of the drivers and teams. Races can last for several hours or even days, requiring drivers to maintain focus and performance over extended periods. For Norris, the thrill of testing his skills in this demanding environment is enticing.

Reflecting on his experience at Daytona, Norris recalled, “I loved doing Daytona. I did it with Fernando, so it was a cool experience for me at the time.” The camaraderie and teamwork involved in endurance racing are aspects that resonate with him, as they foster a different dynamic compared to the solo nature of F1 racing.

Balancing F1 and Other Racing Ventures

Despite his eagerness to explore endurance racing, Norris is mindful of his current commitments in Formula 1. He is in a competitive battle with his teammate Oscar Piastri for the 2025 F1 title, which necessitates his full focus on the sport. “It would have to be the right time for me to race other championships,” he acknowledged, highlighting the importance of timing in his decision-making process.

As McLaren continues to strive for success in future championships, Norris recognizes that his priority remains in F1 for the time being. The challenge posed by Piastri adds an extra layer of intensity to his current situation, as both drivers aim to elevate McLaren’s standing in the racing world.

Respect for Max Verstappen’s Choices

Norris expressed admiration for Verstappen’s ability to branch out into other racing series, noting that the reigning champion is in a unique position. “I respect Max for going and doing such a thing; he’s in a much easier position to go and do those things,” Norris commented. Given Verstappen’s established success in Formula 1, his foray into endurance racing comes with less pressure compared to what Norris and Piastri are currently experiencing.

Norris understands that the circumstances surrounding a driver’s career can influence their decisions about racing in different formats. He remarked, “If he’s fighting for a championship and those kinds of things, it probably wouldn’t look the best. But he’s in a position where he’s also won four world championships.” This acknowledgment reflects Norris’s understanding of the complexities inherent in racing and the decisions drivers make based on their standings.

Future Aspirations and Goals

Looking ahead, Norris is eager to pursue opportunities in endurance racing and other formats that pique his interest. His aspirations are not limited to just one type of racing; instead, he envisions a future where he can explore various avenues and experiences. “I think the main thing I probably will never do is oval racing, just not for me,” he stated, indicating his preferences while remaining open to other challenges.

The desire to engage in diverse racing experiences is a testament to Norris’s passion for motorsport. He shares a similar sentiment with Verstappen, expressing a deep-seated urge to try new things and broaden his racing repertoire. For Norris, the idea of competing in renowned endurance events like Le Mans or Sebring is an exciting prospect that aligns with his career ambitions.

The Role of McLaren in Endurance Racing

As McLaren prepares to enter the World Endurance Championship, Norris sees this as a significant opportunity for the team and its drivers. The prospect of competing at Le Mans, one of the most storied events in motorsport, is particularly enticing. McLaren’s involvement in endurance racing could pave the way for its drivers to gain invaluable experience and showcase their skills in a different context.

Norris’s connection to McLaren and his desire to represent the team in endurance events highlights the importance of collaboration between drivers and their teams. The strategic direction taken by McLaren aligns with Norris’s aspirations, allowing him to dream about a future where he can compete in a variety of prestigious racing events.

Conclusion

Lando Norris’s excitement about potentially following in Max Verstappen’s footsteps into endurance racing underscores a growing trend among Formula 1 drivers seeking diverse experiences in the motorsport world. While his current focus remains on competing in Formula 1, Norris’s passion for exploring other racing formats, particularly endurance events, reveals a broader vision for his career. With McLaren’s upcoming participation in the World Endurance Championship, Norris’s aspirations may soon become a reality, allowing him to embrace new challenges and experiences in the world of racing.