Verstappen GT3 Team Shifts to Mercedes for 2026 GT World Challenge Bid

The racing team owned by Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen will join a top-tier European championship. Verstappen.com Racing has confirmed a major manufacturer switch. It will enter the GT World Challenge Europe in 2026 with a Mercedes-AMG GT3. This ends its current program using Aston Martin machinery.

This strategic move places the team in the series’ highly competitive Pro class. It plans to contest both the Sprint Cup and Endurance Cup events. The program marks a significant expansion for Verstappen’s growing racing project outside of F1.

Operation and Driver Lineup for New Mercedes Campaign

The team will not build and run the cars alone. The technical operation will be handled by the experienced 2 Seas Motorsport outfit. According to industry reports, this partnership ensures deep expertise with the Mercedes-AMG GT3 platform from the start.

This setup aims for immediate competitiveness in a fierce championship. The GT World Challenge Europe features legendary races like the 24 Hours of Spa. A professional operational base is crucial for success in these demanding endurance events.

The driver lineup for this new chapter has been confirmed. Chris Lulham and Daniel Juncadella will form the Sprint Cup pairing. For the Endurance Cup rounds, they will be joined by former series champion Jules Gounon.

Strategic Expansion Beyond Formula 1

This announcement is separate from Max Verstappen’s primary role driving for Red Bull in Formula 1. It represents a serious, long-term investment in GT and endurance racing. The team is building a professional structure for sustained competition.

The shift from Aston Martin to Mercedes signals a pursuit of competitive advantage. It reflects the dynamic nature of customer racing where teams align with manufacturers offering strong support packages. This move solidifies Verstappen.com Racing’s commitment to being a front-runner in sportscar racing.

For fans, it means seeing the Verstappen brand compete at iconic European circuits. It adds a new, high-profile entry to an already packed GT3 grid. The 2026 season is now highly anticipated.

This major manufacturer switch by the Verstappen GT3 team reshapes its future in sportscar racing. The Mercedes-AMG program represents a bold, calculated step into one of the world’s toughest GT championships. All eyes will be on their performance when the new era begins.

Dropping this nugget your way-

Q1: What car will Verstappen.com Racing use in 2026?

The team will switch to using the Mercedes-AMG GT3. It will no longer race with Aston Martin vehicles. This change takes effect for the 2026 GT World Challenge Europe season.

Q2: Who will run the team’s Mercedes cars?

The technical and operational duties will be managed by 2 Seas Motorsport. This team has proven experience with Mercedes-AMG GT3 cars. The partnership is designed to deliver a competitive package from the outset.

Q3: Which drivers are confirmed for the team?

Chris Lulham and Daniel Juncadella are confirmed for the Sprint Cup races. Jules Gounon will join them for the Endurance Cup events, including the 24 Hours of Spa. The lineup blends youth with extensive GT3 experience.

Q4: Does this affect Max Verstappen’s F1 career?

No, this team operation is entirely separate from his Formula 1 duties with Red Bull. It is a personal business and racing project. He is not currently scheduled to drive in the GT races himself.

Q5: What championship will the team compete in?

Verstappen.com Racing will enter the GT World Challenge Europe. It will participate in both the Sprint and Endurance Cup segments of the championship. The series is one of the premier global GT3 competitions.