Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen has returned to GT machinery following the conclusion of the 2025 Formula 1 season, this time behind the wheel of a Mercedes-AMG GT3 at the Estoril Circuit in Portugal. The test marked a notable change from earlier in the year, when Verstappen drew attention after being spotted driving a Ferrari 296 GT3 in Germany. Verstappen’s earlier appearance came during testing at the Nürburgring ahead of the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie event, a race he ultimately
Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen has returned to GT machinery following the conclusion of the 2025 Formula 1 season, this time behind the wheel of a Mercedes-AMG GT3 at the Estoril Circuit in Portugal. The test marked a notable change from earlier in the year, when Verstappen drew attention after being spotted driving a Ferrari 296 GT3 in Germany.
Verstappen’s earlier appearance came during testing at the Nürburgring ahead of the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie event, a race he ultimately went on to win. That outing fueled discussion about his growing involvement in GT racing alongside his Formula 1 commitments. The latest test, however, represented a shift in machinery as well as setting.
At Estoril, Verstappen drove a Mercedes-AMG GT3 operated by 2 Seas Motorsport. The car competes under the Verstappen.com Racing banner as part of the team’s GT program. The test immediately sparked speculation about Verstappen’s longer-term plans in endurance and GT racing, particularly regarding a potential return to the Nürburgring in the future.
While observers have suggested the reigning champion could be preparing for a move into the Pro Class, no confirmation has been made regarding a competitive program beyond testing. Questions remain about whether Verstappen will line up for the Nürburgring 24 Hours in 2026, with several factors still unresolved.
Verstappen has previously indicated that his availability for endurance racing depends heavily on Formula 1 commitments, particularly with new regulations expected to introduce uncertainty and a more demanding schedule. He has also pointed to the importance of aligning GT3 team plans, including car selection and race programs, before committing to specific events.
Despite the unanswered questions, Verstappen has made it clear he wants to remain involved in GT racing when circumstances allow. His recent Mercedes-AMG GT3 test suggests continued interest and preparation, even as his primary focus remains at the highest level of single-seater competition.
Category: General Sports
