Max Verstappen will exit Formula One in Portugal on 16‑18 October to battle MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi in a GT3 contest.
Breath‑taking Cross‑Sport Collision
Racing in a Mercedes‑AMG GT3, Verstappen will race for 2 Seas Motorsport under the Verstappen Racing banner, facing Rossi in the Pro category of the GT World Challenge Europe finale at Portimao.
Calendar Chaos Pays Off
Late adjustments to the World Endurance Championship forced Verstappen Racing drivers Jules Gounon and Daniel Juncadella to skip the Barcelona 6 Hours, opening a slot that the Dutchman sealed by confirming his own entry.
Von Dutchling’s Bold Comments
“I know that two of my drivers won’t be part of the line‑up, so we’ll step in,” said Verstappen before confirming he will race himself. “I love Portimao and Portugal, so we’ll try and have a good weekend.”
Staggering Sprint Across Seven Weeks
Between Azerbaijan in Azerbaijan and the Brazilian Grand Prix on 8 November, Verstappen will compete in seven races, including the Portimao GTWCE finale.
Future Endurance Stakes
Verstappen plans a return to the Nürburgring 24 Hours in 2026 after a costly mechanical failure. In 2027 he will target the Spa‑Francorchamps 24 Hours and has ruled out the Ford Hypercar at Le Mans.
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