Max Verstappen GT3 Programme Backed by Red Bull in 2026

Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Max Verstappen is balancing an expanded GT3 racing programme alongside his Formula 1 commitments in 2026, with Red Bull Racing backing his involvement despite questions over its impact on the team’s performance.

The four-time world champion has committed to selected rounds of the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS) and is targeting the 24 Hours of Nürburgring in May. Most recently, Verstappen competed in the second NLS round with Winward Racing, driving a Mercedes-AMG GT3. He crossed the finish line with a dominant margin of 59 seconds before being disqualified post-race for exceeding the permitted number of tyre sets.

Verstappen’s participation has even influenced the NLS calendar, with the second round brought forward to fit between the Chinese and Japanese Grands Prix. This adjustment underlines the scale of his commitment to GT racing, which began with a winning debut at the Nordschleife in 2025, where he secured victory in a four-hour endurance race in a Ferrari 296 GT3.

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His growing involvement in GT3 machinery also coincides with his public criticism of Formula 1’s 2026 regulations. Verstappen has described the new generation of cars as less engaging from a racing perspective, prompting him to pursue additional competitive outlets beyond F1.

Team principal Laurent Mekies has offered full support for Verstappen’s GT programme, stating that the Dutch driver’s passion for racing across different categories is evident and does not require justification.

“He doesn’t need to convince us. It’s enough to speak for a few minutes with Max, and you see his enthusiasm when he talks about racing cars—no matter what type,” Mekies told media including RacingNews365.

Red Bull has endured a difficult start to the 2026 Formula 1 season, scoring just 12 points from the opening two races—its lowest return at this stage since 2015. Verstappen retired from the Chinese Grand Prix due to an ERS cooling failure and finished sixth in the season opener in Australia.

Despite these setbacks, Mekies emphasised that Verstappen’s commitment to the F1 programme remains unchanged. The team maintains confidence in his work ethic and continued contribution to car development as it seeks performance gains.

“I have no doubts about his motivation. His way of working with us and his commitment to improvements is the same as last season,” Mekies added.

Verstappen’s dual programme introduces a strategic dimension to his 2026 campaign. While GT3 racing may serve as a valuable competitive outlet that sustains his intensity, it also raises considerations regarding workload and focus during a critical phase for Red Bull.

As the season progresses, the balance between Verstappen’s GT commitments and Formula 1 priorities will be closely monitored, particularly as Red Bull aims to recover performance and re-establish itself in the championship fight.