Max Verstappen’s Verstappen Racing has taken a significant step into junior driver development by signing Dries van Langendonck, a promising 15-year-old Belgian currently part of McLaren’s junior programme. This collaboration aims to provide van Langendonck with additional support and guidance as he advances through the ranks towards Formula 1®.
Van Langendonck joined McLaren’s driver development programme in July 2024 after clinching the 2023 World Junior Karting title. He made a strong impression when stepping into single-seater racing at the end of 2025, securing pole position and victory on his debut weekend in British Formula 4. Currently competing full-time in British F4 during the 2026 season, van Langendonck leads the championship following a double win at Zandvoort.
Max Verstappen, a four-time Formula 1® world champion and Red Bull Racing driver, praised van Langendonck’s rapid progress and natural talent in both karting and open-wheel racing. Verstappen Racing will support the young driver with simulator resources and professional management, aiming to help him reach the highest level of motorsport.
Despite the new association with Verstappen Racing, van Langendonck remains a part of McLaren’s junior programme. This arrangement highlights a collaborative approach to driver development, with Verstappen Racing providing supplementary support rather than replacing existing commitments. For Verstappen, this marks his first involvement in managing junior drivers, expanding his engagement in motorsport beyond his own Formula 1® career.
While there have been rumours about Verstappen’s potential move to McLaren’s Formula 1® team, these remain exploratory discussions without confirmed plans. The focus for now is on nurturing van Langendonck’s talent through Verstappen Racing’s resources and expertise.
This partnership reflects a growing trend of established Formula 1® drivers taking an active role in mentoring and managing emerging talents. Verstappen’s endorsement of van Langendonck underscores the Belgian driver’s potential and the importance of structured support in progressing through the competitive junior categories.
Verstappen Racing’s involvement brings additional professional tools to van Langendonck’s development, including simulator access and management guidance, which are crucial for adapting to the demands of higher-level racing. As van Langendonck continues to lead the British Formula 4 championship, this support could play a key role in his journey towards Formula 1®.
