Frustrated with F1's new car, Verstappen openly expresses interest in NASCAR, sparking speculation about a possible switch with potential opportunities at RFK Racing and Trackhouse Racing
As the 2026 Formula 1 season unfolds, four-time world champion Max Verstappen has made no secret of his deepening frustrations with the sport’s new car regulations. The redesigned machines, intended to improve racing and sustainability, have instead drawn widespread criticism for feeling artificial and unengaging.
Many observers have drawn parallels to NASCAR’s troubled transition to the Car of Tomorrow (COT) in the late 2000s, a radical shift that initially prioritized safety and parity but left drivers complaining about handling, reduced excitement, and a loss of the raw, driver-focused thrill that defined the series.
Verstappen’s candid comments reflect a growing sense of disillusionment.
“That’s what I’m saying. I’m thinking about everything inside this paddock,” he stated. “Privately I’m very happy. You also wait for 24 races. This time it’s 22. But normally 24. And then you just think about is it worth it? Or do I enjoy being more at home with my family? Seeing my friends more when you’re not enjoying your sport?”
These words, spoken amid a grueling calendar and cars he has described as “not fun at all,” have sparked intense speculation about his future.
Could the Dutch superstar, still in his prime at 28, walk away from F1 before his Red Bull contract expires in 2028, and pivot to America’s premier stock car series?
The idea is no longer far-fetched. Verstappen recently told fellow Red Bull driver and NASCAR rookie Connor Zilisch of Trackhouse Racing, “I mean, I would like to do it.”
His longstanding interest in NASCAR machinery is well-documented. For years, he has logged countless hours racing NASCAR Trucks at Talladega on iRacing, honing his skills on superspeedways in the virtual world and building familiarity with the unique demands of stock car racing.
NASCAR figures have taken notice, and extended open invitations.
In February 2026, RFK Racing co-owner and driver Brad Keselowski publicly offered Verstappen a Ford Mustang NASCAR Cup Series car. “We have a Ford Racing Cup car ready to go,” Keselowski posted. “Feel free to DM when you’re ready Max.”
The gesture came directly on the heels of Verstappen’s complaints about the 2026 F1 machinery, signaling that doors in the American series are already swinging open.
Legendary NASCAR voice Dale Earnhardt Jr. has been among the most vocal advocates. “I would love to see Max Verstappen give it a try,” Earnhardt said, emphasizing Verstappen’s active sim-racing background. “He’s incredible, and I think his curiosity, his work ethic, I think all of that would play a great role in allowing him to be successful.”
Earnhardt sees Verstappen as part of the broader racing “community” that sim racers share, predicting he would adapt quickly to modern NASCAR equipment.
Further fuel comes from FOX Sports analyst and former champion Kevin Harvick. “We’ve seen him in a few other, minor races before. So, I think it becomes a lot easier to open those doors if he’s not racing in Formula 1,” Harvick noted. “With Red Bull involved, I’d say that door to Project 91 probably stands a lot more open than ever before.”
Trackhouse Racing’s Project 91 initiative has successfully integrated international talent, most notably when Shane van Gisbergen transitioned from supercars to a stunning Cup Series street-course victory in Chicago.
In van Gisbergen's rookie campaign last season, he recorded five wins (the most ever by a first-year driver), and also qualified for NASCAR's postseason.
A similar one-off or part-time entry for Verstappen would fit the program perfectly.
Practical hurdles exist, of course. Verstappen has never publicly expressed interest in oval racing, NASCAR’s traditional backbone. Yet the 2026 Cup schedule offers ample road-course opportunities that align with his F1 strengths. The current lineup includes events at the San Diego Street Course, Sonoma Raceway, Watkins Glen International, and Circuit of the Americas (COTA).
Verstappen has already tasted victory in F1 at COTA, which could provide natural entry points. A debut on one of these tracks could showcase his adaptability without forcing an immediate oval baptism.
History supports the crossover’s feasibility. Several prominent F1 drivers have tested NASCAR waters with varying success: Juan Pablo Montoya, Jacques Villeneuve, Kimi Raikkonen, Jenson Button, Mario Andretti, Scott Speed, Jim Clark, Innes Ireland, Daniil Kvyat, and Nelson Piquet Jr.
Some thrived; others treated it as a one-off adventure. Verstappen’s elite talent, work ethic, and sim experience position him for greater potential impact.
Whether Verstappen ultimately makes the jump remains uncertain. His Red Bull ties run deep, and F1’s financial rewards are unmatched. But as the 2026 cars continue to sap his passion, the allure of NASCAR’s raw competition, passionate fanbase, and family-friendly schedule grows stronger.
A part-time Project 91 stint with Trackhouse Racing could serve as the perfect bridge, allowing him to chase new challenges while keeping options open on both sides of the Atlantic. Not to mention Trackhouse Racing is NASCAR's official Red Bull team.
In an era of increasing motorsport globalization, Verstappen in a stock car would be more than a novelty. It could redefine cross-series rivalries and bring fresh eyes to NASCAR.
For now, the conversation is alive, and the invitation stands. If the frustrations mount, don’t be surprised to see the Flying Dutchman trading open-wheel precision for fender-banging excitement on American soil. The racing world would be richer for it.