The next chapter in Richard Verschoor’s partnership with McLaren Racing has officially begun. As part of the McLaren Driver Development Programme, the Dutch driver has been selected to join the development programme of McLaren’s all-new Hypercar project, contributing to the testing and development of the MCL-HY ahead of the brand’s return to top-level endurance racing in 2027.
Contributing to McLaren’s return to Le Mans
McLaren’s return to the FIA World Endurance Championship and the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans represents one of the most ambitious projects in modern endurance racing. The MCL-HY Hypercar has been developed under the LMDh regulations and will compete in the Hypercar class from 2027. Throughout 2026, the team is conducting an extensive testing programme to develop the car ahead of its competitive debut. Verschoor has been named as one of the drivers supporting this programme, working alongside experienced endurance racing drivers and McLaren personnel as the project progresses.
A valuable opportunity for development
For Verschoor, the opportunity represents another important milestone in a season that already includes competition in the European Le Mans Series with Duqueine Team and participation in Formula E testing programmes. Testing a Hypercar provides valuable experience in one of motorsport’s fastest-growing categories. The combination of hybrid technology, advanced aerodynamics and endurance racing strategy makes Hypercar competition one of the most technically demanding disciplines in the sport.
Building towards the future
McLaren’s Hypercar programme forms a key part of the manufacturer’s ambition to compete for overall victories at Le Mans and in the FIA World Endurance Championship. The 2026 test programme is focused on refining the MCL-HY before its homologation and race debut in 2027. For Richard Verschoor, being involved from the early stages of the project offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of a brand-new race car while continuing to strengthen his credentials in endurance racing. As the season progresses, the focus remains on gaining experience, delivering performance and continuing to build towards future opportunities at the highest levels of international motorsport.
