In a headline-making development for motorsport fans, Max Verstappen’s GT3 team, Verstappen.com Racing, has announced a pivotal switch to Mercedes power for the 2026 season, emphasizing their ambition to become elite contenders in GT racing. As preparations heat up, the team’s Max Verstappen GT3 Mercedes shift is seen as a strategic leap, aiming to secure a lasting impact beyond Formula 1.
Verstappen.com Racing Sets Sights High for 2026
Max Verstappen, celebrated Dutch driver and reigning four-time Formula 1 World Champion, is expanding his presence on the racing circuit. His team, Verstappen.com Racing, already secured top honors by winning the Gold Cup standings in the 2025 GT World Challenge Europe. Now, they are sharpening their focus on breaking into the fiercely competitive Pro class in 2026.
Verstappen openly discussed his team’s journey and intensifying seriousness during a Red Bull podcast, stating,
“It’s becoming more and more serious,”
—Max Verstappen, World Champion. This sentiment reflects the growing determination within the team as they strive for excellence in GT racing.
Strategic Switch from Ferrari to Mercedes
In a move surprising some in the racing community, Verstappen.com Racing is making a significant shift from Ferrari to Mercedes for their GT3 campaign. This multi-year agreement underlines their commitment to competitive progression and aligns them with one of motorsport’s most reputable manufacturers. The transition comes as they prepare to compete in the GT World Challenge Europe Sprint Cup, fielding impressive talent for the 2026 season.
The team’s Sprint Cup lineup will feature Chris Lulham partnered with Aston Martin F1 simulator expert Daniel Juncadella, while accomplished driver Jules Gounon will anchor efforts in the prestigious GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup. This championship, known for grueling events such as the 24 Hours of Spa, will test both machinery and driver endurance at the highest level.
Verstappen’s Hands-On Approach and Racing Aspirations
Unlike some team owners who take a backseat role, Verstappen’s hands-on approach keeps him behind the wheel. Between Formula 1 races, he has participated in several GT3 events and even earned his ‘Ring Licence’ by competing at the demanding Nürburgring circuit. His long-term ambition is clear: he hopes to test his resolve at iconic 24-hour races at Spa and Le Mans—a dream that continues to inspire fellow drivers and fans alike.
Reflecting on the team’s progress, Verstappen commended the growth of his drivers, many of whom transitioned from virtual sim racing into real-world competition. He revealed,
“I always said, we do compare ourselves with them in terms of lap time. That’s the target,”
—Max Verstappen, World Champion. This philosophy has driven the team to focus relentlessly on refining car dynamics and achieving faster lap times over the racing season.
Anticipating the Dual Challenge: F1 and GT Racing
As 2026 approaches, Verstappen faces the unique challenge of balancing his main Formula 1 commitments with his GT ambitions. The launch of the Red Bull RB22 in Detroit on January 15 is poised to be a major event, introducing fresh colors and new expectations for the coming F1 season. All eyes will be on how Verstappen manages these two demanding roles—straddling the pinnacle of single-seater racing while steering his GT3 team’s ambitious ascent.
Impact on the Motorsport Landscape
Max Verstappen’s robust involvement in both Formula 1 and GT racing signals a new era for motorsport, where drivers and teams transcend traditional boundaries. His GT3 team, far from being a secondary pursuit, demonstrates a commitment to innovation and high achievement. As competitors and fans in locations from the Nürburgring to Detroit monitor these developments, Verstappen’s quest for greatness in both arenas continues to inspire, promising excitement as the countdown to 2026 accelerates.
