Max Verstappen is actively working behind the scenes to secure an entry for the prestigious Spa 24 Hours endurance classic in 2027. The four-time Formula 1 world champion admitted that he is trying hard to make the campaign work so he can arrive at the iconic Belgian venue thoroughly prepared. With no calendar clashes between Formula 1 and the endurance showcase that year, Spa's close proximity to the Dutch border and his personal Belgian heritage make the venture a natural priority for the star.
"I love Spa of course, so I’m trying to make it work, as I want to arrive well prepared," Verstappen explained ahead of his GT World Challenge Europe debut weekend at Portimao. The Red Bull Racing pacesetter also revealed his future aspirations to share a car with five-time IndyCar champion Alex Palou, whom he originally targeted as his dream teammate for the current weekend's lineup before logistical realities set in.
Despite the high-profile buildup, Verstappen's opening outing in the series proved to be less than smooth. Taking the wheel for the opening stint in the #3 Mercedes-AMG machine, the Dutchman attempted an inside passing maneuver on Ezequiel Perez Companc’s Audi at Turn 3 during the very first flying lap. The gap quickly evaporated, resulting in contact that sent the Audi spinning off its racing line and triggered an immediate stewards' investigation.
Race control ultimately found Verstappen wholly to blame for an avoidable collision, though they acknowledged mitigating circumstances including the chaotic nature of the opening lap and traffic congestion ahead. The four-time F1 champion escaped grid or time penalties, instead receiving an official stewards' reprimand and a single Behaviour Warning Point. Verstappen maintained that he expected the Audi to hold an outside trajectory, attributing the clash to an unfortunate racing incident.
Meanwhile, teammate Ben Barnicoat admitted that while the Mercedes package boasts undeniable raw speed, it remains physically demanding and far from straightforward to pilot. Verstappen stepped into the #3 entry alongside full-season driver Chris Lulham to cover for regulars Dani Juncadella and Jules Gounon, who were concurrently contesting the World Endurance Championship in Barcelona. Read our in-depth analysis and catch all the latest motorsport updates right here on Sportrik Media.
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