Photo: Red Bull Content Pool

Verstappen delivers verdict on prospects of more American drivers in F1

21:01, 24 Jan

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byTobia Elia

Max Verstappen hopes to see an American driver return to Formula 1 in the near future.

“I hope that you get an American driver back on the grid. That would be great for sure.”

- Max Verstappen

Beyond the three Grands Prix held in the United States, the 2026 season will also mark the arrival of two major American giants: Ford — in reality making a return after its partnership with Jaguar came to an end in the early 2000s — and Cadillac, which is set to make its outright debut in Formula 1.

Asked whether he expects to see more talent emerging from the United States going forward, the Dutchman told GPblog: “There is already a lot of talent in general, not only heading to Formula 1, but also in other racing categories.

“I hope that you get an American driver back on the grid. That would be great for sure, but it’s not something where you say, ‘now we need one.’

"Hopefully the most talented one will make it in the end. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter where he or she comes from. But with so much involvement from the US now, it would be great.”

Photo: RacePictures

Verstappen delivers hilarious counter-proposal to Ricciardo's request

Red Bull and Ford recently released a light-hearted video featuring Max Verstappen alongside Racing Bulls rookie Arvid Lindblad, with the two drivers swapping seats across a broad selection of Ford machinery, from iconic classics to the latest models.

The challenge was supervised by Daniel Ricciardo, who has been working as a brand ambassador for the Detroit manufacturer since last year.

Away from the cameras, a behind-the-scenes moment shared on social media stole the spotlight, as Ricciardo jokingly invited Verstappen to his hotel room for a movie night — an offer that prompted an equally funny reply from the Dutchman.

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