Max Verstappen to make GT3 return against Valentino Rossi, race on seven weekends in a row

Red Bull Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen will contest the GT World Challenge Europe finale at Portimao on October 16-18. Driving a Mercedes-AMG GT3 for 2 Seas Motorsport under the Verstappen Racing banner, the outing pits him against MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi in the Pro category. The appearance creates an intense schedule for Verstappen, who will race on seven consecutive weekends between the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and the Brazilian Grand Prix on November 8.

Verstappen is stepping in after regular drivers Jules Gounon and Daniel Juncadella faced a calendar clash with the World Endurance Championship's Barcelona 6 Hours. Verstappen will partner Chris Lulham, while ruling out teaming up with Fernando Alonso. Looking ahead, Verstappen also plans to contest the Nurburgring 24 Hours in 2027 and the Spa 24 Hours.