Verstappen Destroys GT500 Rival at Fuji

Max Verstappen once again demonstrated his extraordinary versatility after beating the benchmark lap time of a Japanese Super GT driver during a special challenge at Fuji Speedway with Red Bull Racing.

In Red Bull Motorsports’ latest video feature, the four-time Formula 1 world champion drove a Super GT500 machine and was tasked with getting as close as possible to the lap time of Japanese driver Atsushi Miyake.

Instead, the result exceeded all expectations. Verstappen not only matched Miyake’s benchmark but comfortably surpassed it despite extremely difficult and slippery track conditions at Fuji Speedway.

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The performance further strengthened Verstappen’s growing reputation as one of the most complete drivers in modern motorsport. Over recent years, the Dutchman has repeatedly shown remarkable adaptability across multiple racing categories beyond Formula 1.

From a technical perspective, Super GT500 machinery behaves very differently compared to a modern Formula 1 car. The Japanese prototype-style cars generate huge downforce with aggressive aerodynamic balance and extremely high-speed cornering loads.

Additionally, Fuji’s wet and low-grip conditions made the challenge significantly more complex, requiring careful tyre temperature management and highly precise weight transfer control under braking and acceleration.

Nevertheless, Verstappen quickly found competitive rhythm within only a limited number of laps. His throttle control and ability to maintain car stability in slippery conditions became key factors behind the impressive lap time.

Verstappen’s activities outside Formula 1 also come amid his increasing involvement in GT racing throughout the 2026 season. He has actively expanded his GT3 programme with Team Verstappen Racing using the Mercedes-AMG GT3 package.

That GT endurance involvement has already attracted attention inside the Formula 1 paddock, especially after former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya urged Red Bull and Ford to evaluate the commercial implications of Verstappen racing Mercedes machinery.

At the same time, Verstappen remains at the centre of ongoing Formula 1 future speculation due to his long-term links with Mercedes, which continue to generate major discussion throughout the paddock.

However, Verstappen’s primary focus remains performance on track. His display at Fuji once again highlighted the technical adaptability that many believe separates him from the majority of his current rivals.

With the 2026 Formula 1 season still developing and Verstappen’s GT racing programme continuing to expand, his dominant Fuji performance has further reinforced his status as one of the most versatile drivers of the modern motorsport era.