Max Verstappen, the reigning Formula 1 champion, has ignited speculation about a possible transition to NASCAR in 2025, fueling
“Max Verstappen NASCAR crossover rumors 2025.”
This buzz emerged after a recent interaction between Verstappen and stock car driver Connor Zilisch that fans eagerly discussed across motorsports communities.
Discussing Max Verstappen’s Potential NASCAR Interest
Formula 1 and NASCAR are two of the globe’s most prominent motorsport series, often compared but rarely crossed over by drivers. Despite the rarity, some athletes and teams have captured attention by exploring opportunities across disciplines. Verstappen’s potential shift is now the latest topic stirring excitement.
On the podcast Happy Hour, hosted by NASCAR driver Kevin Harvick, a conversation took place about Verstappen’s recent meeting with Connor Zilisch. Alongside co-hosts Kaitlyn Vincie and Mamba Smith, Harvick analyzed the event that unfolded during a shoot at an airfield, highlighting the growing connection between F1 and NASCAR talents.
Verstappen and Zilisch’s Stock Car Encounter
During the podcast, Smith introduced a clip showing Zilisch standing beside his No. 87 Red Bull stock car when Verstappen approached to greet him. The drivers exchanged a handshake before Zilisch invited Verstappen into his stock car, to which Verstappen responded with laughter and said,
I mean, I would like to do it.
The candid moment set social media alight, producing widespread speculation about Verstappen’s intentions outside Formula 1. Harvick added fuel to the fire, revealing a rumor that Verstappen might retire from F1 at the end of the year.
Kevin Harvick Weighs In on Verstappen’s Future Plans
When asked about the motivation behind the rumor, Harvick replied,
Probably because he can’t decide what to do with all his money.
This playful remark suggested that Verstappen’s future racing choices might be influenced by opportunities beyond the F1 circuits.
Harvick then considered the possibility of Verstappen racing in NASCAR, noting his past participation in smaller events outside F1. He pointed out that, with Red Bull’s involvement and Trackhouse Racing’s Project 91 developments, Stade may find the pathway smoother than ever before. As Harvick observed,
We’ve seen him run some of the other little races that he’s done in the past. So, if he’s not doing F1, I think it becomes a lot easier to open those doors. And with Red Bull involved, I would say the door for that to happen is probably way more open with Project 91 than it ever has been.
The Excitement Around a NASCAR and F1 Collision
Harvick’s commentary was echoed by Smith, who envisioned a scenario where Verstappen could continue racing in F1 until 2028 but also potentially compete in NASCAR. Smith said,
[Verstappen] wants to race till 2028 in F1, for sure. That’s not that far from now, and he’s young. I’d love to see it cause we could put all the conversations to rest, and the collision between NASCAR and F1 would be must-see TV.
Such a crossover, combining the talents and fanbases of two major motorsports, would be unprecedented and draw vast attention. While Harvick was clear that the idea remains speculative, the possibility of Verstappen behind the wheel of a NASCAR stock car seems less far-fetched than ever.
What Could This Mean for Motorsports Fans?
If Max Verstappen decides to explore NASCAR, his move would bridge a gap between two racing worlds and potentially inspire other drivers to follow. The involvement of major organizations like Red Bull and Trackhouse Racing could accelerate this trend, changing how fans view motorsport careers.
The speculation about Verstappen’s next steps will continue to grow as the 2025 racing calendar unfolds, with enthusiasts eagerly watching for new developments. Should Verstappen take on NASCAR, it would mark a historical moment in motorsports, reshaping cross-discipline competition and fan engagement globally.
