VERSTAPPEN AND ROSSI SET FOR GT3 SHOWDOWN AT PORTIMÃO

Max Verstappen is looking forward to sharing the track with Valentino Rossi when the pair compete in the GT World Challenge Europe finale at Portimão on 16–18 October. The four-time Formula 1 champion will make his series debut in a Mercedes-AMG GT3 entered by his own Team Verstappen Racing, while nine-time motorcycle grand prix world champion Rossi will race for BMW factory-supported squad WRT. Both are set to compete in the Pro category.

Verstappen hopes to catch up with Rossi away from the circuit, but would prefer not to encounter him during the race. “He’s a very cool guy, so I hope to catch up with him,” he said. “I mean it nicely, but I do not hope to see him in the race.” His ideal scenario, he added, is to “see no one” because he is running at the front and focused on a strong performance.

The Dutchman expects a demanding contest, describing the grid as “super competitive”. He has already sampled GT3 racing at the Nordschleife this year and is keen to take on another new challenge. “It’s very different to Formula 1, but I love it,” Verstappen said, adding that Portimão is “a very cool track to drive”. He said he intends to enjoy the event while working with his team to secure the best result possible.

The Portuguese race falls during a short break between two F1 triple-headers, leaving Verstappen scheduled to compete across seven consecutive weekends. After the Azerbaijan, Malaysia and Singapore run, he will travel to Portimão, then return to F1 for the United States, Mexico and Brazil. Following one free weekend, the planned final triple-header is Las Vegas, Qatar and Abu Dhabi.

The conclusion of the 2026 F1 season remains uncertain because of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Qatar and Abu Dhabi remain on the calendar for now, while Imola is being prepared as a possible venue for the season finale if the races cannot take place as scheduled.