Max Verstappen is set to compete in the GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup finale at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portimao, Portugal, this coming weekend. The Formula 1 driver will participate in the three-hour endurance race, marking his return to GT3 machinery.
Verstappen will drive the number 3 Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO for Mercedes-AMG Team Verstappen Racing. He will share driving duties with British drivers Chris Lulham and Ben Barnicoat.
His participation stems from the unavailability of regular drivers Jules Gounon and Dani Juncadella, who have World Endurance Championship commitments during the same period. Verstappen confirmed his intention to race, expressing anticipation for the event.
The event officially commences on Thursday, October 15, with official paid test sessions. Friday, October 16, will feature two free practice sessions.
The first free practice is scheduled from 09:45 to 11:15 local time, followed by a second session from 13:45 to 15:15. Qualifying for the endurance race will take place later on Friday, beginning at 18:55 local time.
The main three-hour GT World Challenge race is scheduled to start on Saturday, October 17, at 17:00 local time in Portugal. The race is expected to conclude around 20:00.
This outing at Portimao is integrated into Verstappen’s demanding Formula 1 schedule, occurring between the Singapore and United States Grands Prix. He recently secured a victory at the Singapore Grand Prix.
Earlier this year, Verstappen also competed in the Nürburgring 24 Hours. His involvement in GT racing highlights his continued engagement with other motorsport disciplines alongside his F1 commitments.
Verstappen Racing, which formally absorbed Team Redline in 2026, operates with a multi-year collaboration with Mercedes-AMG. This partnership sees the team campaigning Mercedes-AMG GT3 cars in the GT World Challenge Europe.
“I am looking forward to it,” Max said. “It is going to be a busy seven weeks, but I will enjoy it. Let’s see what we can do at Portimão. I love the track and being in Portugal, so we will try to have a good weekend.”
The Portimao event marks the final round of the 2026 GT World Challenge Europe season, featuring a field of over 60 GT3 cars from various manufacturers.
