Max Verstappen, the renowned Formula 1 driver, has expressed his desire to venture into endurance racing in the future. Currently, his focus remains firmly on Formula 1 as he is on the verge of achieving a fourth consecutive title. This article delves into Verstappen's experiences and thoughts regarding his potential foray into endurance racing.

Opportunity at Honda's 'Hybrid Heroes'

On Tuesday at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, the 27-year-old Dutchman took part in a celebration of Honda's 'Hybrid Heroes'. Here, he got his first taste of GTP machinery by driving an Acura ARX-06. Coached by Colin Braun, who drives the car for Meyer Shank Racing (MSR) in the IMSA SportsCar Championship, Verstappen spent nearly half an hour on the track. In a roundtable with select media, when asked by Autosport if this opportunity tempted him to race at Daytona, he responded, "Yeah, it's not about teasing or whatever. I know that I want to do it in the future anyway, but it's just about finding the time. With such a busy F1 schedule, it's almost impossible because we finish so late in the season and then to properly prepare for Daytona or other events is pretty difficult. I know that when I want to do it, I want to go there and try to win it and be really competitive. The only way to do so is by doing some proper testing and getting really well prepared, which is not possible at the moment. But, who knows? Maybe in a few years' time. I'll still be young-ish and able to drive the cars."

Open Door with Honda

David Salters, president of Honda Racing Corporation, stated that Verstappen will always have an opportunity to drive in the Daytona 24 Hours. "I think for Max Verstappen the door is always open," Salters exclusively told Autosport. "He is one of the greatest racing drivers of all time already. Let's see what he goes on to achieve. We have a brilliant relationship with Max. Let's see what happens, but he's a busy boy. But, the door is always open for Max Verstappen."

First Experience with GTP Machinery

Verstappen's only previous experience with GTP machinery was on a simulator, which helped him limit a steep initial learning curve. "To get a first feel for it here, of course, there are quite some low-speed corners," Verstappen said. "The car really comes alive in the higher speeds that was more on the back side of the track. But it was very enjoyable. I've driven these cars on the sim a little bit, but to get a first feeling in real life was really cool."

First Drive and Challenges

Verstappen went on to note that "it was quite natural" getting behind the wheel for the first time. However, the chilly conditions made it necessary to spend some extra time warming up the tyres to an optimal temperature. "I was trying to find the limits step-by-step without overdoing it," he said. "Because that's not necessary at all, and have a bit of fun out there."