Verstappen refuses to risk life or legs in hunt for triple crown

Max Verstappen

Verstappen refuses to risk life or legs in hunt for triple crown

The Dutchman has dismissed a future Indy 500 try

Ewan Gale

Thursday 2 June 2022 05:00

Max Verstappen has ruled out a bid for motorsport's triple crown as he is unwilling to 'risk his life or legs' competing in the Indianapolis 500.

The triple crown entails winning the Monaco Grand Prix, the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Indy 500 and has only been completed by two-time F1 champion Graham Hill.

Fernando Alonso and Juan Pablo Montoya are the only two active drivers needing one more leg to complete the feat, with the Spaniard requiring the Indy 500 to finish the set, whilst the latter has to win Le Mans.

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With the Monaco GP already under his belt and the Indy 500 - won this year by former Caterham and Sauber driver Marcus Ericsson - being held on the same day as F1's jewel in the crown event, Verstappen was asked if he would attempt the achievement in the future.

"I’ve no desire to chase the triple crown, at least, not IndyCar," insisted the reigning world champion.

"I appreciate what they do. It’s insane, these drivers… I have a lot of respect for what they achieve there.

"But for me, I don’t need to risk my life there and potentially injure myself, your legs, whatever or… it’s just not worth it anymore, let’s say it like that."

Verstappen lays out Le Mans wish

Despite his dismissal of an IndyCar shot, Verstappen hinted he would look to participate in endurance racing after trying his hand at the Virtual 24 Hours of Le Mans during the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Maybe Le Mans... I do like endurance races, so I will probably do some, hopefully soon, but for me, it doesn’t really matter," explained Verstappen.

"I, of course, try to be good in F1, I try to be good in whatever I do, but that desire of the triple crown or whatever – not interested."