In a stunning return to the racetrack just over a week after clinching his fourth Formula 1 championship in Abu Dhabi, Max Verstappen has ignited excitement among fans and critics alike. The Dutch driving sensation is currently testing a Mercedes-AMG GT3 at the iconic Estoril racetrack, signaling his potential leap into GT competition for the upcoming season.
Verstappen is collaborating with 2 Seas Motorsport, a team that has taken the reins on the technical support for the Verstappen.com initiative in the GT World Challenge Europe (Endurance). During this exhilarating test session, two striking Mercedes-AMG GT3 cars decked out in Red Bull livery are tearing up the track, creating a buzz that could be felt across the motorsport community.
Adding to the intrigue, Verstappen is joined by the seasoned Mercedes-AMG driver Jules Gounon, who brings invaluable expertise with the AMG GT3 model. The possibility of Verstappen participating in the prestigious 24 Hours of Nürburgring in 2026 hangs in the balance. With a new generation of Formula 1 cars set to debut next season, Verstappen may choose to focus entirely on his F1 commitments, pushing his GT ambitions down the road for another year.
Even if Verstappen opts out of the GT World Challenge Europe, fans can still expect to see Chris Lulham, a Gold status driver in 2026, and Thierry Vermeulen, whose father serves as the manager for the Formula 1 star. Gounon stands out as the frontrunner to take on the role of the official Mercedes-AMG driver for this exciting project, further heightening anticipation for what lies ahead.
As Verstappen revs up his engines at Estoril, the motorsport world watches with bated breath, eager to see how this chapter unfolds in the career of one of racing’s brightest stars. The blend of F1 prowess and GT ambitions presents a thrilling narrative that promises to captivate enthusiasts as the new season approaches.
