Verstappen Talks about Alonso’s Non F1 Activities

F1 veteran Fernando Alonso is juggling a full season of World Endurance Racing alongside his F1 commitments for McLaren. In fact, the WEC even moved a race to ensure the Spaniard would not miss their event in Japan. As he is in the twilight of his career, he isn’t as competitive as he used to be. Max Verstappen on the other hand has a career that is just blossoming.

Earlier this year, the two-time F1 world champion added the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans title to his trophy cabinet.

He also missed last year’s Monaco Grand Prix to take part in Indy 500. A win at the famous IndyCar race would now complete the “Triple Crown” of motor sport.

However, Verstappen has ruled out ever making similar moves to race away from F1.

“Maybe. If I’m old and slow, I will do it,” Verstappen said.

“When you have the best car on the grid, everyone can win with that car.

“Any F1 driver could have won in the Mercedes for the last four years. Everyone knows that.

“That’s why you don’t see Hamilton leaving to do these things because he doesn’t need to.

“It’s the same for me. I’m in a position to fight for victories, so my motivation is very high.

“I don’t want to do Le Mans or IndyCar or whatever.”

It has now been four years since he has even finished on the podium.  Unfortunately, the winter switch from Honda engine supply to Renault has not yielded the best of results.

Alonso was also aware that the summer European swing will not make life any easier for the team.

Verstappen’s father, Jos Verstappen, has personal experience of the frustrations of running at the back of the field.

“My father had the same problem,” Verstappen Jr added.

“He was in F1 but he didn’t win, and there’s a moment when the motivation simply disappears and it kills you inside.”