Reigning F1 world champion Max Verstappen could be set to grace the Premier League in January. No, the Dutchman isn’t seeking a sensational short-term contract to keep himself fit ahead of the 2025 campaign with Red Bull, but instead wants to attend a match as a fan.
Verstappen, 27, is off the back of his fourth successive drivers’ title, with the latest season comprising of a record 24 Grand Prix races.
But the next F1 weekend isn’t now scheduled until March 14-16, when the star will kick off his quest for five in a row in Australia.
On the latest edition of the Talking Bull podcast, Verstappen told host Nicola Hume he hoped to utilise his friendship with Liverpool and Netherlands star Virgil van Dijk and secure match tickets. And he could be at Anfield as early as next month.
“I’ll try, I would really like to go there,” he said, when asked if he intended to watch the Premier League leaders in person. “It’s just very tough to fit it in the schedule. But I said to him, maybe January if I’m around anyway I can squeeze in a night. It would be cool.”
Verstappen’s willingness to travel to the UK next month could mean four opportunities to support his compatriot. On January 5, Liverpool host Manchester United in the top-flight, six days before an FA Cup tie at the same venue against Accrington Stanley.
On January 21, Arne Slot’s men then welcome French side Lille in the Champions League. On the last Saturday of the month, January 25, Ipswich Town are the visitors.
Verstappen openly supports Eredivisie side PSV Eindhoven. He has frequently expressed his backing for the club on social media and has been seen at Philips Stadion – but also revealed he enjoys watching European games as well as domestic ones.
“I love football,” he added. “I watch it when the big games are one. Premier League of course, but Champions League….I always try to watch them as well.”
Despite his admiration for the sport, Verstappen is rarely ever seen with a ball at his feet. He reportedly has strict clauses in his contract forbidding him for taking part in certain activities due to risk of injury.
Another F1 icon, Michael Schumacher, was also renowned for his love of football and regularly played in high-profile charity games involving professionals. He would also be frequently seen honing his skills during breaks or delays on a race weekend.
