Max Verstappen asserts he has no interest in racing at the Indianapolis 500, as he does not want to “risk my life” at the event.
The Indy 500 is often hailed alongside the Monaco Grand Prix and 24 Hours of Le Mans as the most prestigious race in the world, with the trio forming the unofficial ‘Triple Crown of Motorsport’.
Last weekend, ex-Formula 1 driver Marcus Ericsson prevailed at the event for Chip Ganassi Racing.
A number of former F1 drivers or European-based racers have made the switch to IndyCar in recent years, with recent examples being Romain Grosjean, Callum Ilott and Christian Lundgaard.
In 2017, Fernando Alonso skipped the Monaco Grand Prix to take part in the Indy 500, and was in contention for victory before an engine issue put an end to his effort.
But Verstappen says that he will not be following suit, stating the Indy 500 is too dangerous for him to take part in.
“I’ve no desire to chase the Triple Crown. At least, not Indy,” Verstappen said. “I appreciate what they do. It’s insane, these drivers.
“I have a lot of respect for what they achieve there, but for me, especially being in F1 for such a long time already, I don’t need to risk my life there and potentially injure myself, your legs, whatever.
“It’s just not worth it anymore, let’s say like that.”
However, the reigning F1 World Champion remains open to racing in sportscars and endurance races in the near future.
“Maybe Le Mans,” he said. “I do like endurance races, so I will probably do some, hopefully soon, but for me, it doesn’t really matter.
“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.”
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