Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has shown strong support for teenage racing talent Will Macintyre during a difficult time. Earlier this month, 18-year-old Macintyre revealed he was diagnosed with brain and lung cancer and would be stepping away from racing to focus on treatment.
Macintyre, who competes in the GB3 Championship and was the 2023 British F4 vice-champion, began his treatment immediately and remains determined to return to motorsport in the future. The young Englishman has received encouragement from top figures in racing, including Verstappen, F1 Academy managing director Susie Wolff, and Mercedes racer Kimi Antonelli.
Support and Encouragement From Motorsport Leaders
Macintyre shared the unexpected outpouring of support he has received from well-known faces within the racing world.
“Even people I’ve never met before: Max Verstappen, Kimi Antonelli and Susie Wolff, all wishing me well,”
Macintyre told BBC News. He described the kindness of friends who have helped make his hospital stay more comfortable by bringing treats and a VR headset for virtual golf.
“It’s been unbelievable. Thanks everyone so, so much. I’ve got as much sorted to make this as homey and as fun as possible,”
he added. Macintyre highlighted how time passes more quickly when he is in conversation with visitors:
“I mean we just got to make the time go by quicker and whenever I’m talking to anyone time flies by.”
Macintyre’s Determination to Return to Racing
Despite such a challenging diagnosis, Macintyre remains optimistic about the future. While uncertain if his recovery will take months or years, he is resolute in his goal to race again. Racing has been a passion since he started karting at eight years old, and this setback has not diminished his spirit.
The symptoms leading to his diagnosis began with migraines, prompting Macintyre to seek medical evaluation earlier this month. The diagnosis was confirmed within hours, shocking the motorsport community and fans alike.
Macintyre’s initial Instagram post sharing his cancer diagnosis has garnered nearly 90,000 likes and wide sympathy. Amid the public messages, Sky Sports F1 commentator David Croft sent his support:
“Sending big love and positivity from Laura and I mate. Stay strong Champ.”
BTCC racer Nicolas Hamilton, brother of Lewis Hamilton, also encouraged Macintyre, commenting: You got this bro!
The Wider Motorsport Community’s Response
Beyond Verstappen and Wolff, figures such as Martin Brundle, Naomi Schiff, Danica Patrick, and others from Sky Sports and Channel 4 broadcasting teams have shown solidarity with Macintyre. This collective support emphasizes the powerful community spirit that surrounds young athletes in motorsport, especially when facing adversity.
Macintyre’s courage and the backing he has received highlight the human side of racing often unseen by fans, reminding everyone that the sport’s future depends not only on talent but also on resilience and encouragement.
