{
  "id": 17151894,
  "title": "Verstappen leaves door open to Le Mans drive with Ricciardo",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/30/verstappen-leaves-door-open-to-le-mans-drive-with-ricciardo",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-30T00:44:31.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/sports/motor-sports/2026/10/1566648/verstappen-leaves-door-open-le-mans-drive-ricciardo"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "MAX VERSTAPPEN hinted at a potential Le Mans drive alongside former Red Bull teammate Daniel Ricciardi, but only if the opportunity came with the necessary preparation to challenge for victory. Ricciardi mentioned the prospect on the Formula One's Beyond The Grid podcast, expressing willingness to consider a one-off return to Le Mans racing instead of a full-season comeback. When asked about his preferred teammate, Ricciardi named Verstappen, whom he raced with at Red Bull from 2016 to 2018. Verstappen confirmed Ricciardi's interest, stating that if he wanted to participate in endurance racing, he would do it properly with adequate preparation. However, Verstappen highlighted his limited availability due to Formula One commitments, stating he does not have the time to dedicate to a Le Mans project. Verstappen emphasized that for a chance to win against competitors who race the entire season, proper preparation is crucial. At the moment, his focus remains on the demanding weekend at Mexico City's Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, where the high altitude will significantly reduce the car's downforce.",
  "summary": "MAX VERSTAPPEN said a future Le Mans entry with former Red Bull teammate Daniel Ricciardo could appeal, but only if it came with the preparation needed to properly challenge for victory.",
  "key_points": [
    "Verstappen hints at possible Le Mans drive with Ricciardi.",
    "Ricciardi expresses interest in one-off Le Mans return.",
    "Verstappen emphasizes need for proper preparation and limited availability."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Verstappen's cautious openness to endurance racing suggests that any departure from Formula One must prioritize competitive readiness over mere celebrity appearances to satisfy his high standards for performance.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 4,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Channel News Asia",
        "title": "Verstappen leaves door open to Le Mans drive with Ricciardo",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/29/verstappen-leaves-door-open-to-le-mans-drive-with-ricciardo",
        "published": "2026-10-29T23:33:07.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "The Sydney Morning Herald",
        "title": "Ricciardo teases future drive with Red Bull champ",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/30/ricciardo-teases-future-drive-with-red-bull-champ-17163974",
        "published": "2026-10-30T02:40:49.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "The Age",
        "title": "Ricciardo teases future drive with Red Bull champ",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/30/ricciardo-teases-future-drive-with-red-bull-champ",
        "published": "2026-10-30T02:40:49.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}