F1 Drivers Who've Ventured Beyond the Grid
Beyond the Formula 1 paddock, several current drivers have dabbled in other motorsport disciplines. From the grueling circuits of Le Mans to the icy trails of the Arctic Rally, these racers have broadened their horizons.
Formula 1 drivers are often thought to be laser-focused on their Grand Prix careers, but many have ventured into other racing disciplines to test their mettle. Max Verstappen, for instance, will tackle the Nurburgring 24 Hours in 2026, squeezing it in between the Miami and Canada Grands Prix. It's a rare departure from F1's singular focus, but not unprecedented.
Fernando Alonso – IndyCar, WEC Fernando Alonso might just be the most adventurous of the lot. In 2017, amid a frustrating stint with McLaren, he skipped the Monaco Grand Prix to race in the Indianapolis 500. Alonso made quite an impression, reaching the Fast Nine and qualifying fifth. Despite leading the race for several laps, an engine failure ended his hopes. Alonso also joined Toyota for the World Endurance Championship's 2018/19 Super Season, winning the Le Mans 24 Hours and the overall title alongside Kazuki Nakajima and Sebastien Buemi. He even tried his hand at the Dakar Rally before returning to F1 with Alpine in 2021.
Nico Hulkenberg – Le Mans Nico Hulkenberg made his mark at Le Mans in 2015. Already a standout in F1's midfield, he joined Porsche's expanded roster for the endurance classic. Despite qualifying as the slowest of Porsche's entries, Hulkenberg's team emerged victorious, securing the brand's first win at Le Mans since 1998.
Lance Stroll – Daytona 24 Hours Lance Stroll has twice taken part in the Daytona 24 Hours. His first attempt was in 2016, and he returned two years later after his debut F1 season. Partnering with Dani Juncadella, Felix Rosenqvist, and Robin Frijns, Stroll's car faced numerous setbacks, finishing outside the top 10.
Valtteri Bottas – Arctic Rally Valtteri Bottas traded tarmac for snow with his ventures into rallying. Competing in the Arctic Lapland Rally, he secured three top-10 finishes, including a stage win on debut. Bottas has since shifted gears to cycling, participating in gravel-based events and even the UCI Gravel World Championship.
Alex Albon – DTM Though not an active F1 driver at the time, Alex Albon's foray into DTM is noteworthy. As a reserve driver for Red Bull, he raced in the series with AF Corse, driving a Ferrari 488. Albon's efforts paid off with a victory at the Nurburgring and a sixth-place finish overall, paving the way for his return to F1 with Williams.
Max Verstappen – GT3 Max Verstappen's love for GT3 racing is no secret. Last year, he raced under the alias Franz Hermann at the Nurburgring, claiming victory in the Langstrecken Series. Now, he's set to compete in the Nurburgring 24 Hours in 2026, continuing his passion for racing beyond F1.
These drivers remind us that the thrill of racing knows no bounds, and for some, the world of motorsport extends well beyond Formula 1.