Former F1 driver Jos Verstappen, father of four-time world champion Max, has revealed a remarkably extensive racing programme for this year. In recent years the Dutchman has been involved in several European rallies, enjoying success on many occasions. Rallying is the most extreme of motorsports, with several former F1 drivers having ventured into the category. One high-profile racer who spent two seasons competing in the World Rally Championship is 2007 F1 champion Kimi Raikkonen during his hiatus from 2010-2011. Jos Verstappen loves racing off-road and the additional challenges the format presents, such as working with a co-driver. "I'm happy that I found rallying, which gives me an enormous drive and a goal again," Verstappen said on the On De Rallykoffie podcast. "And I think it's insane to do. It's not just the driving, but also the communication with your co-pilot. "I think we have a very good bond and you notice that in the car. We can say anything to each other, we are both very driven and we are honest with each other. That is important." Verstappen continued: "The feeling with the car has always been there. I have to say that I learned a lot from my co-pilot Renaud Jamoul. He is very driven and well-organised. "Our team is very driven with how we want the car to be. Together, with the team and the engineer, we leave nothing untapped to get the car as good as possible."
Verstappen's busy programme
Verstappen often travels the world to each F1 race with his son, although has missed the occasional event to compete himself. For 2025, the 52-year-old will compete in two championships, as well as several one-off races. "This year I have 19 or 20 races planned, with all the BRCs (races in the Belgian Rally Championship), we are going to do all the ERCs (races in the European Rally Championship), Rallye International du Valais and a historic rally in Sweden. "We're also going to do the East African Safari Classic Rally with the Porsche. We have an insanely beautiful programme." Whilst Verstappen has a lot of racing ahead of him this year, one event not yet on his radar is the Dakar Rally. "I have to say, every time I see it, I do like it, but I don't think it's for me," revealed Verstappen.
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