ROSSI AND VERSTAPPEN SET FOR GT3 SHOWDOWN IN PORTIMÃO

Valentino Rossi and Max Verstappen are set to meet on track at the GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup season finale in Portimão, where the series’ GT3 field will race at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve.

Verstappen, the reigning Formula 1 champion, confirmed he would compete in Portugal after making several GT3 appearances this year on the Nürburgring Nordschleife. He was in contention for overall victory at the 24-hour race there until a mechanical problem halted his charge on Sunday.

Rossi, a nine-time motorcycle world champion and BMW factory rider since 2023, is relishing the prospect of racing against him, while recognising the challenge. “It will be fantastic, but at the same time Max Verstappen will be a huge problem because the guy is simply so fast,” Rossi told Italian broadcaster Sky. He said he had never imagined he would one day race against Verstappen, adding that the Dutchman’s appearance was “great for everyone.” Rossi hopes to stay close to him and learn as much as possible.

Verstappen returned the praise, calling Rossi “a cool guy” and saying he hoped they could spend some time together. Once the race begins, however, he would rather keep the Italian at a distance: “If it were up to me, I’d want a nice, lonely race at the front.” He also expects a tough contest, noting the quality of the GT World Challenge drivers.

The Algarve event comes amid a packed run for Verstappen, who is embarking on seven consecutive race weekends. After Formula 1 rounds in Baku, Sepang and Singapore, he heads to GT3 competition in Portugal, followed by races in Texas, Mexico and Brazil.

Although GT3 is very different from Formula 1, Verstappen said he loves the category and became interested in it through racing on the Nordschleife. He described Portimão as a beautiful circuit and said he wanted to enjoy every lap—but also to win.