Max Verstappen has inked a multi-year deal with Mercedes, but not the one you’re thinking. Verstappen Racing, his own GT outfit, announced a partnership with Mercedes-AMG Motorsport for the 2026 GT3 season. This move switches them to the Mercedes-AMG GT3 car in the GT World Challenge Europe, covering both Sprint Cup and Endurance Cup races.
Max Verstappen X Mercedes
The news dropped ahead of next year’s action, and it’s backed by pros. Verstappen Racing teams up with experienced 2 Seas Motorsport to run the show. Mercedes-AMG Customer Racing boss Stefan Wendl called it ambitious, praising 2 Seas’ track record with their GT3 cars and past championships. “This is an extremely promising programme with top-level entries,” Wendl said.
Verstappen Racing Driver Lineup
Verstappen Racing driver line-up looks solid as Chris Lulham stays on for his second year in the Sprint Cup, joined by Daniel Juncadella. The Spaniard brings GT3 know-how and Mercedes experience. They’ll share the wheel across five Sprint rounds at Europe’s best circuits. Lulham said it’s a big step: “I learned a lot last year, and now with pros like Mercedes-AMG and Daniel, it’s incredible.”
For the Endurance Cup, Jules Gounon jumps in, a Mercedes-AMG factory ace. The trio tackles five rounds, including the epic 24 Hours of Spa. Gounon, with years under his belt, sees success potential: “This project has all the right ingredients with Max’s involvement, Chris, and Dani.”
Juncadella echoed the hype: “I’m delighted Verstappen Racing picked Mercedes-AMG. With Max in the mix, it’s a strong project.” No F1 switch here, Verstappen stays Red Bull bound. This GT push shows his racing hunger beyond the top series. Factory support, top partner, killer drivers, 2026 could deliver wins.
Read More
Why Does This Matter?
Verstappen’s sim-racing roots grew into Verstappen Racing, now leveling up. After sprint and endurance battles, Mercedes-AMG adds firepower. Fans wondered about F1 rumors, but this clears it: Max expands his empire smartly.
As 2026 lies ahead, Verstappen eyes his fifth title while building this GT beast. Red Bull dominates, but off-track moves like this keep him ahead. So, stay tuned!
Also read: MotoGP Sees Global Fanbase Increase By 632M In 2025
