9 May 2026motorsportAnalysisInterview

Max Verstappen Drawn to GT3's Driver-Centric Racing, Category Founder Says

World champion Max Verstappen is increasingly drawn to GT3 racing due to its Balance of Performance system that equalizes cars, while his growing disillusionment with F1's 2026 regulations fuels his expanded sportscar program, including a Nurburgring 24 Hours debut later this month.

Max Verstappen's growing passion for GT3 racing is rooted in its driver-centric Balance of Performance system, according to Stephane Ratel, the founder of the GT3 category. The four-time F1 champion is expanding his sportscar program in 2026, including a debut at the Nurburgring 24 Hours later this month, as he openly questions his future in Formula 1.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's increasing involvement in GT3, combined with his criticism of the 2026 F1 regulations and Red Bull's lackluster start to the season, suggests a potential shift in his motorsport priorities. His presence has greatly boosted GT3's global profile.

The details:

Verstappen will drive a Mercedes-AMG GT3 entered by Winward under the Verstappen Racing banner in the Nurburgring 24 Hours on May 17-20.
He made his Nordschleife debut in 2025, winning his first GT3 race in a Ferrari 296 GT3.
Ratel emphasized that GT3's Balance of Performance equalizes cars, allowing driver talent to be the deciding factor – unlike F1 where car performance often determines results.
"You can be the best driver in the world, but if you are not in the car of the year, you're going to have a hard time," Ratel told Motorsport, citing Ayrton Senna's struggles against Williams' active suspension.
Verstappen's 2026 schedule includes multiple NLS rounds and a test of a Nissan Z GT500 at Fuji Speedway, plus reports of talks with Ford about a WEC Hypercar program.
Red Bull has yet to score a podium in 2026, but Verstappen insists his decisions about F1 are not solely competitive.

What's next:

Verstappen's most extensive sportscar campaign to date runs parallel to his F1 duties. While he remains under contract with Red Bull, his growing commitment to GT3 and potential Hypercar moves signal a post-F1 career in endurance racing may be on the horizon. Ratel praised Verstappen's impact, saying he brings "another step in the general public recognition of GT3 racing."