Max Verstappen has signed McLaren junior driver Dries van Langendonck to his racing team, marking the first move by the four‑time Formula 1 world champion into driver development. The Verstappen Racing squad will provide “additional support and guidance” to van Langendonck as he progresses through the junior ranks.

The 15‑year‑old joined McLaren’s driver development programme in July 2024 fresh from sealing the 2023 World Junior Karting title. Having stepped into single‑seater racing at the end of last year, he took pole and victory on his maiden weekend in the British Formula 4 championship and is competing full‑time in 2026. Van Langendonck currently leads the British F4 standings after a double victory at Zandvoort.

“I am impressed by the steep progress that Dries has made during his career and the talent he has shown both in karting and in his first steps in open formula racing,” Verstappen said. “After getting to know Dries and his family, I’m convinced that all the signs for becoming a great future driver are there.”

The agreement also provides a connection between Verstappen Racing and McLaren, with van Langendonck set to remain part of the McLaren junior programme. Rumours recently surfaced linking Verstappen to the Woking‑based F1 team, but talks were believed to be focused on both parties understanding their options rather than a serious move for the Dutch driver.