Formula E CEO eager to explore potential Max Verstappen partnership

Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds has said he sees genuine potential for the electric series to work with Max Verstappen, both on track and through the Dutchman's wider business ventures.

Several Formula 1 drivers have taken a close look at Formula E's new Gen4 car this year, with the machine making its competitive debut in Season 13. 

Lando Norris was among those to react positively after seeing the car during the Monaco E-Prix weekend, while Carlos Sainz and Nico Hulkenberg also inspected the vehicle in person.

The Gen4 package brings a significant step up in performance, with permanent all-wheel drive, race power rising to 450 kW and peak Attack Mode output reaching 600 kW. Development driver James Rossiter has likened the car's initial acceleration to that of Formula 1's V10 era machines of the early 2000s.

Dodds would like to see Verstappen get behind the wheel of the Gen4 car, even if no conversation about a test has taken place since the four-time world champion signed a new long-term deal with Red Bull.

Asked whether he had spoken to Verstappen further about the car, Dodds told RacingNews365 in a recent interview that the pair hadn't been in touch on the matter.

"No, we haven't talked to him more about the car," said Dodds. "I know he's very focused, delighted to see him re-sign with Red Bull for the long term. 

"And obviously, we know the team there really well, and I think they're doing a really good job. But I'd still love to see Max in this car, partly because I just really value his insight. 

"So I'd love him to drive the car to be able to give us real feedback, real insight into what he thinks of it."

"But I have no doubt that throughout this Gen4 era, we're going to be overwhelmed with potential new drivers."

Formula E eyes Max Verstappen possibilities

Formula E will race in the Netherlands for the first time next season, with Zandvoort hosting a double-header on June 18 and 19, 2027, as rounds 14 and 15 of the 2026/27 season.

Given Verstappen's commercial footprint extends well beyond his cockpit, with ventures spanning esports, GT racing and driver development through Verstappen Racing, Dodds believes there could be scope to involve him around the Dutch race weekend.

Asked if Verstappen could play a role in promoting the event, Dodds said the door remains open.

"Yeah, maybe," answered Dodds. "I forget what it's called, Verstappen Racing, but his investments are not just in him racing Formula 1 cars. 

"He's also building academies, and he's very focused on sim-to-track activity. I think there are opportunities to do things with him that could be pretty exciting, but we haven't managed to have that conversation yet."