Coulthard questions Le Mans simulator rule Verstappen could face

David Coulthard has questioned the mandatory simulator session for drivers who have not driven at Le Mans for more than five years, saying Max Verstappen would have to complete it if he entered the 24 Hours.

On the Up to Speed podcast, Coulthard recalled Mark Webber’s move from Formula 1 to Porsche’s sportscar programme. Webber had to attend a simulator facility just outside Paris before racing at Le Mans, despite having come close to the F1 world title several times, Coulthard said.

Coulthard called the requirement surprising and, in several respects, somewhat ridiculous, asking whether drivers of that level should have to prove themselves in a simulator. He acknowledged the counterargument that rules are rules.

He described Le Mans as historic and beautiful but argued it is less challenging than Monaco to learn, pointing to its long straights. Verstappen’s plans after Formula 1 include endurance racing, with the Le Mans 24 Hours and Daytona among the major events he wants to win.