Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has officially completed his highly anticipated debut in the GT World Challenge Europe championship at Portimao. The Dutch superstar teamed up with Ben Barnicoat and Chris Lulham to pilot the Mercedes-AMG GT3 entered by Mercedes-AMG Team Verstappen Racing for the season finale in Portugal.
Starting the high-stakes endurance race from 14th on the grid, Ben Barnicoat delivered a solid opening stint to climb up into eighth position. Chris Lulham then took over the car for the chaotic middle phase of the race. However, drama unfolded roughly an hour before the checkered flag when Lulham collided with the WINWARD Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 driven by confirmed champions Lucas Auer, Maro Engel, and Luca Stolz.
Following the unfortunate on-track contact, the stewards handed the team a drive-through penalty, which forced the car to plummet down the running order to 24th place and seemingly ruined any prospects of a strong points finish in the grueling season finale.
The tide turned completely when Max Verstappen stepped into the cockpit with roughly 45 minutes remaining on the clock. Cheered on by thousands of enthusiastic fans in the grandstands, the F1 ace unleashed a masterclass in racecraft, slicing through the traffic one car at a time before crossing the finish line in a remarkable ninth place overall.
Speaking after the race, Verstappen beamed with satisfaction and praised the exceptional caliber of the GT World Challenge field, noting that many rivals boast incredible international racing achievements. When asked about a potential entry into the iconic Spa 24 Hours next year, he admitted it remains a strong possibility on his favorite circuit, provided he can plan and prepare meticulously for the endurance classic.
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