Max Verstappen will contest the GT World Challenge powered by AWS event at Portimão (16–18 October), taking the controls of the #3 Mercedes-AMG Team Verstappen Racing entry for the season-closing contest in Portugal.
Sharing with full-season driver Chris Lulham, the Dutchman will test his abilities against some of the most successful GT stars on the planet in a three-hour Endurance Cup race. The line-up will be completed by experienced British driver Ben Barnicoat, who brings a wealth of top-level GT experience.
“I am looking forward to it,” Max said. “It is going to be a busy seven weeks, but I will enjoy it. Let’s see what we can do at Portimão. I love the track and being in Portugal, so we will try to have a good weekend.”
Verstappen has made no secret of his passion for GT racing, notably contesting this year's IGTC second Round at the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring alongside leading GT World Challenge drivers Jules Gounon, Dani Juncadella and Lucas Auer.
His own Verstappen Racing squad has been present on the GT World Challenge grid since 2025 and has stepped up to the Pro class this year with a Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO. The team scored its maiden overall victory in the Sprint Cup event at Magny-Cours and took a first Endurance Cup podium at the Nürburgring.
The Portimão event will feature an open paddock, pit and grid walks, and a fan zone which includes food and drinks options, merchandise stalls, displays, and live music from a DJ. All of these activities are included within the prize of a general admission ticket. A full weekend pass (Friday to Sunday) costs just 25€, while a Saturday ticket (which includes the main race) costs only 15€. In each case, kids aged 16 and under can attend for free.
As well as the deciding GT World Challenge round, there will also be a full line-up of support series at Portimão. This will be a festival of GT racing, with the GT2 European Series powered by Pirelli, GT4 European Series and McLaren Trophy Europe all set to crown their champions in Portugal. In total, the event will comprise more than eight hours of racing.
With a grid of 60 GT3 cars expected and the addition of Max Verstappen, it promises to be a truly spectacular finale for the most competitive GT series in the world.
Tickets for the event are on sale now. For more information please click here