Max Verstappen drawn to GT3 racing for driver focus

Max Verstappen is embracing GT3 racing because it lets drivers make the difference in a balanced field, according to series architect Stephane Ratel. The Formula 1 champion plans a larger programme in 2026 that includes his debut at the Nurburgring 24 Hours later this month.

Verstappen has increased his GT3 commitments after testing the category at the Nordschleife last year. He won on his first GT3 outing there and now races a Mercedes-AMG GT3 entered by Winward under the Verstappen Racing banner in several NLS rounds. Outside grand prix weekends he continues private testing and recently tried a Nissan Z GT500 at Fuji Speedway for a Red Bull promotion.

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Max Verstappen next to an F1 car symbolizing 2027 hybrid engine changes
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Max Verstappen calls F1 engine changes very positive for 2027

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Max Verstappen has welcomed an agreement in principle to adjust Formula 1 power units toward a 60-40 split between internal combustion engines and electric power starting in 2027. The four-time world champion said the shift represents meaningful progress after discussions with the FIA and Formula 1. He added that the changes increase the likelihood he will remain in the sport beyond this season.

Max Verstappen will compete this weekend in the Nurburgring 24 Hours, driving a Mercedes-AMG GT3 for the Winward team. Fellow Formula 1 drivers have expressed admiration and interest in the iconic event.

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Max Verstappen is set to compete in the Canadian Grand Prix this weekend after driving a Mercedes-AMG GT3 in the Nurburgring 24 Hours, where a late driveshaft failure ended a strong run for the Verstappen.com Racing entry.

Max Verstappen expressed frustration with his Red Bull RB22's performance and the 2026 Formula 1 regulations following the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka. The four-time champion finished unable to overtake Alpine's Pierre Gasly due to energy management issues and highlighted safety concerns after Oliver Bearman's heavy crash. Verstappen suggested using 'safety' arguments to prompt rule changes.

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Max Verstappen has backed his long-time race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase's decision to join McLaren as chief racing officer in 2028, following last week's announcement. Lambiase consulted Verstappen beforehand, who called it an 'incredible opportunity.' Ex-F1 driver David Coulthard foresees challenges for Red Bull in managing Lambiase until his contract ends.

Max Verstappen said the Monaco Grand Prix qualifying session allowed him to drive naturally without battery management demands imposed by 2026 regulations.

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Isack Hadjar has admitted to initial concerns about Red Bull's unstable second seat before his promotion to partner Max Verstappen in 2026, despite targeting it from the outset. The 21-year-old's rookie season with Racing Bulls—marked by 51 points, 12th in the championship, and a podium at the Dutch Grand Prix—earned him the Milton Keynes spot amid buzz including support from former Red Bull drivers.

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