Verstappen.com Racing Set to Switch to Mercedes for GT3 Campaign

Max Verstappen's personal racing team, Verstappen.com Racing, appears poised to switch to Mercedes-AMG machinery for its GT World Challenge Europe program. Trackside footage from a test at a wet Portimão circuit showed Mercedes-AMG GT3 cars running in the team's distinctive Red Bull-inspired livery, with Verstappen himself sharing driving duties.

Why it matters:

This move highlights Verstappen's active and expanding involvement in GT3 racing outside of his Formula 1 commitments. A switch to Mercedes, a powerhouse in GT3 competition, signals a serious competitive intent for his privateer team and offers a clear glimpse into the type of racing the reigning world champion is passionate about pursuing alongside his F1 career.

The details:

• Testing in Portugal revealed at least two Mercedes-AMG GT3s running in Verstappen.com Racing colors, with one car sporting Verstappen's iconic #33.
• The three-time F1 champion was on track alongside factory Mercedes driver Jules Gounon, and was also seen driving a Ferrari 296 GT3 during the same test session.
• The operational partner for the potential program is reported to be 2 Seas Motorsport, the same squad that ran the team's Aston Martin entry in this year's GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup.
• This would mark the fifth different manufacturer for Verstappen.com Racing, following previous affiliations with Audi, Porsche, Ferrari, and Aston Martin in various competitive and testing roles.

The big picture:

Verstappen has consistently expressed his desire to race in major GT3 events, specifically naming the Nürburgring 24 Hours as a dream. Earlier this year, he took a victory in an NLS round with Ferrari squad Emil Frey Racing. This potential Mercedes partnership is the latest step in those ambitions, providing his team with proven, championship-winning equipment. It underscores a long-term vision for his involvement in motorsport beyond the pinnacle of single-seater racing.

What's next:

While not yet officially confirmed, the on-track test is a strong indicator of the team's 2025 direction in GT World Challenge Europe. The focus will be on finalizing the program and driver line-ups, with questions remaining about how extensive Verstappen's own driving role will be alongside his demanding F1 schedule with Red Bull.