Max Verstappen has been advised to consider a future career in IndyCar racing once his Formula 1 tenure ends, according to two-time Indy 500 winner Arie Luyendyk. This suggestion arises amid ongoing speculation about Verstappen’s plans beyond F1, especially since the Dutch driver has expressed interest in competing in other motorsport series.
As Verstappen’s current F1 contract runs through 2028, questions remain about his next move after that point. Recently, Verstappen was spotted driving a GT3 car at the Nürburgring, fueling conjecture about potential directions he might pursue later on. However, Luyendyk, a veteran of IndyCar racing, has made a case for Verstappen to venture into IndyCar rather than other disciplines.
Luyendyk Highlights Verstappen’s Exceptional Composure and Skill
In a discussion with RACER, Luyendyk praised Verstappen’s talent and character, expressing enthusiasm about seeing him compete in IndyCar. He remarked,
“I would love to see him in an IndyCar,”
and added,
“Yeah, he’s an amazing talent. And on top of that, he’s a nice guy. To me, he is.”
The former racer compared Verstappen’s calmness and radio communication style to that of fellow driver Lando Norris, highlighting a stark difference in their approach during intense moments. Luyendyk said,
“I was watching the Brazilian race on Netflix, and there’s the radio communication. And then you hear Lando on the radio, and then you hear Max, and it’s like you’re listening to a 12-year-old Lando and you’re listening to a 30-year-old veteran Max.”
He continued,
“So calm, so calculated. Like, ‘Yeah, I can last another five minutes in this weather,’ you know, and Lando was saying, ‘Oh, we’re all going to die,’ or something like that.”
Luyendyk also emphasized Verstappen’s multitasking capabilities, attributing them to his extensive karting background and sim racing experience. He pointed out an incident where Verstappen noticed Norris’s mistake during a yellow flag, which led to a penalty for Norris. According to Luyendyk, this skill set separates Verstappen as a uniquely focused and adept driver.
Insights on Verstappen’s Development and Family Influence
Reflecting on what shaped Verstappen into the driver he is today, Luyendyk credited the influence of Max’s father, Jos Verstappen, who is known for his strict training methods. While acknowledging his own potential softness as a coach, Luyendyk observed,
“I might have been too soft. I wouldn’t have been aggressive enough.”
He also shared accounts of Jos Verstappen’s intense and sometimes harsh disciplining, stating,
“I’ve heard stories where he would be so verbal with him, it was unbelievable. Almost like child abuse. But hey, it made Max what he is. Next level kind of driver, but also mental.”
This rigorous upbringing appears to have contributed significantly to Max’s mental strength and racecraft.
The Potential Impact of a Shift to IndyCar for Verstappen’s Career
Max Verstappen’s possible move to IndyCar after 2028 could bring a new level of excitement and competitiveness to the series, which has a storied history with drivers like Luyendyk himself. Verstappen’s ability to manage pressure and maintain focus, combined with his proven adaptability, might help him succeed in the diverse challenges of IndyCar racing.
As Verstappen continues to show interest in exploring other racing avenues beyond Formula 1, support from established IndyCar figures like Luyendyk could influence his decisions. Motorsport observers will be watching closely in the coming years to see if Verstappen embraces this pathway and how it might shape his legacy beyond his accomplishments in F1.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Max Verstappen a millionaire?
A. According to Celebrity Net Worth in December 2024, Verstappen’s net worth is around $200 million. He has gained wealth through sponsorships, investments, and a well-paying Formula 1 salary. Before 2020, his salary was comparatively lower than that of the top F1 drivers.
Q. Did Max Verstappen apologize?
A. Christian Horner said Max Verstappen said sorry to the Red Bull team after crashing with George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix. This incident caused Verstappen to fall from 5th to 10th place after receiving a 10-second time penalty.
Q. Who did Max Verstappen lose respect for?
A. Max Verstappen mentioned he no longer respects George Russell following their meeting with officials in Qatar about a qualifying issue in Formula 1.
Q. Has Max Verstappen apologized to Lando Norris?
A. There’s no need for him to say sorry. I don’t expect one from him. In my view, there’s no need for an apology. The racing, after being reviewed, was generally fair. Sometimes it got intense, but we discussed it and are both ready to compete again.
