Max Verstappen is set to return to GT3 racing by taking part in the 2026 GT World Challenge Europe finale at Portimao, Portugal. This appearance will come amid a demanding Formula 1® schedule, marking a notable addition to Verstappen’s motorsport activities outside the Formula 1® paddock.
The event is scheduled for 16-18 October 2026, fitting into a brief gap between two triple-header blocks in the Formula 1® calendar. Verstappen will compete in a Mercedes-AMG GT3 entered by 2 Seas Motorsport under the Verstappen Racing banner. This will be his first race in the GT World Challenge series and his first GT3 outing since the 2026 Nürburgring 24 Hours in May.
Verstappen’s participation will see him face off against strong competition, including the factory-supported BMW WRT team. Among the notable drivers in the field is MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi, who races for WRT BMW in the Pro category. Verstappen’s usual teammates Jules Gounon and Daniel Juncadella will not be available due to a clash with the World Endurance Championship’s Barcelona 6 Hours.
Verstappen has ruled out teaming up with Fernando Alonso for this event, clarifying that his entry is a one-off occasion enabled by the unique scheduling gap. The Portimao race adds to an already packed program for Verstappen, who is set to contest seven consecutive Formula 1® races from the Azerbaijan Grand Prix to the Brazilian Grand Prix in November 2026.
Beyond Portimao, Verstappen is expanding his sportscar racing commitments. He aims to return to the Nürburgring 24 Hours later in 2026 and has expressed interest in adding the Spa-Francorchamps 24 Hours to his calendar in 2027. However, he has declined an opportunity to race Ford’s new Hypercar at the Le Mans 24 Hours, indicating a selective approach to his endurance racing engagements.
The exact identity of Verstappen’s additional co-driver(s) for the Portimao race has not been confirmed, nor have specific race objectives or performance expectations been detailed. His involvement highlights a growing interest in GT3 competition alongside his Formula 1® career, reflecting a broader trend of top-level drivers exploring diverse racing disciplines.
Verstappen’s entry into the GT World Challenge Europe finale at Portimao offers a unique intersection between Formula 1® and GT racing, set against a challenging schedule. This move will be closely observed as part of his evolving motorsport portfolio in the coming seasons.