Ford Targets 2027 WEC Hypercar Entry, Eyes Max Verstappen for Le Mans

Ford aims to join the World Endurance Championship hypercar class in 2027 and is exploring a possible partnership with four‑time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen for Le Mans.

Ford Motor Company announced it will enter the WEC hypercar category starting in the 2027 season, with the 24 Hours of Le Mans as a primary target. The move marks the automaker’s return to top‑level endurance racing after years of focusing on Formula 1 power‑unit partnerships.

Ford’s boss Mark Rushbrook said he has spoken repeatedly with Verstappen about opportunities in sportscar racing, noting the driver’s skill both on and off the track. He described Verstappen’s ability to give detailed feedback as a valuable asset for car development.

Ford’s plan calls for a hypercar entry in the 2027 World Endurance Championship season, which includes the Le Mans 24‑hour race. The company intends to field a car built to the new LMH regulations that govern the hypercar class.

Rushbrook praised Verstappen’s performance, saying he loves what the Dutch driver does in a Formula 1 car and appreciates his off‑track professionalism. He noted that Verstappen’s capacity to communicate engineering insights exceeds raw data alone.

In a recent demonstration at Fuji Speedway, Verstappen lapped the circuit 1.7 seconds faster than Super GT driver Atsushi Miyake, clocking 1:42.290 versus Miyake’s 1:44.075. The lap was set in a Super GT300 car under changing weather conditions, highlighting Verstappen’s adaptability.

A potential Verstappen involvement would give Ford a high‑profile driver capable of elevating its hypercar programme’s visibility and technical input. It also aligns with Ford’s broader strategy to leverage top talent across motorsport disciplines.

For Verstappen, a Le Mans start would represent a rare endurance‑racing appearance amid a packed Formula 1 schedule. Such a move would test his versatility and could influence future driver‑market dynamics.

Watch for any official confirmation of a Ford‑Verstappen collaboration ahead of the 2027 WEC season opener.