The 52-year-old Verstappen only began his rally career in 2022 but has already competed in 38 rallies since then. His pace has been impressive, with the elder Verstappen securing victories in the Belgian national championship.
Now, his rally journey is expanding even further, as Verstappen has announced he will compete in the European Rally Championship (ERC) this season. In total, he’s planning to take part in up to 20 rallies across Europe, while continuing to compete in the Belgian series.
“This year, I’ve got 19 or 20 events planned: every BRC rally, every ERC rally, the Rallye International du Valais, and a historic rally in Sweden,” Verstappen revealed on his website.
“And we’re also doing the East African Safari Classic Rally with the Porsche. We have an insanely beautiful programme.”
Looking ahead, the iconic Dakar Rally could also pique the interest of the four-time world champion’s father.
“Every time I watch it, I find it fascinating, but I don’t think it’s for me,” Verstappen admitted.
Through rallying, Verstappen – who previously raced in Formula 1 himself – has discovered a new passion in life.
“I’m glad I found rallying. It gives me a huge drive again and a clear goal. I love doing it, not just the driving, but also the communication with my co-driver. I think we have a very strong bond, and you really notice that in the car,” Verstappen praised his co-driver, Renaud Jamoul.
“We can say anything to each other, we’re both very driven, and we’re honest with one another. That’s important.”
At the same time, working with a co-driver has been the area where Verstappen has faced the steepest learning curve.
“I think the hardest part was understanding my co-driver’s notes and having someone constantly talking in your ear while you’re fully focused on driving. The notes just didn’t register at first, they didn’t sink in. That was my biggest struggle. But the feeling with the car has always been there.”