Max Verstappen is set for a unique challenge at Silverstone today, September 16, 2026. The four-time Formula 1 world champion will trade his RB car for a go-kart as he takes on 100 drivers in a special event called 'Max vs 100'.
Billed as the world's biggest go-kart race, Verstappen must overtake all 100 competitors within just 30 laps. Each driver he passes will be eliminated. This is not just a test of speed but also of strategy and mental endurance.
To level the playing field, each driver gets a 'Chucky lap'. During the opening half of the race, they are allowed to use a shortcut once. Verstappen also has a single shortcut, but he cannot use it until after the first 15 laps have been completed.
All drivers, including Verstappen, will race in identical karts. Sealed ballast will be added for anyone under the minimum weight. Each competitor gets one qualifying lap to determine their starting position, with the grid set by fastest times. Verstappen will start at the very back.
“It's going to be quite hectic – trying to race 100 people will be very tough,” Verstappen said. “I haven't driven a lot of go-karting over the last few years, naturally, because of F1 and my GT racing. It's always fun to go back and have a good time.”
The big question is: can anyone stop Verstappen? Former F1 driver David Coulthard shared his thoughts. “The interesting thing for me is the time. Max has the ability to be quicker than pretty much everyone, but being quicker isn’t the same as overtaking 100 karts,” Coulthard said. “He’ll have traffic, defensive driving, the fast lap, and the clock to deal with. If there’s a quick karter there who can make themselves difficult to pass, Max could have a proper race on his hands.”
The race will be live-streamed globally on Disney+ and the ESPN App for ESPN Unlimited subscribers in the US from 5pm UK time. A delayed broadcast will be shown on ESPN2 later. The race starts at 6pm UK time. The live broadcast will be led by triple BAFTA-winning comedian Mo Gilligan alongside a wider presenting team. Notably, Verstappen will be able to speak to the competing drivers throughout, enabling viewers to hear the conversations as the race unfolds.
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