Max Verstappen’s racing team has officially announced a significant partnership with Mercedes-AMG, set to begin in 2026. The deal marks a new chapter for Verstappen Racing, which will compete in the GT World Challenge Europe (GTWCE) with a single Mercedes-AMG GT3 in each category.
This multi-year agreement underscores a strategic shift for Verstappen Racing as it seeks to enhance its competitive edge in the sports car racing arena. The team will field entries in both the Sprint Cup and Endurance Cup of the GTWCE, showcasing its ambition to contend at the highest levels of motorsport.
In the GTWCE Sprint Cup, the team will welcome back sim racing driver Chris Lulham for a second season. Lulham will team up with Genesis as part of the lineup, aiming to build on last season’s experience and performance. The collaboration with Mercedes-AMG is expected to provide a robust platform for both drivers and the team, leveraging the German manufacturer’s engineering prowess and track record in GT racing.
The partnership is set against a backdrop of increasing competition in the GT World Challenge Europe, where teams are continuously seeking innovative ways to gain an advantage. By aligning with a manufacturer like Mercedes-AMG, Verstappen Racing aims to tap into advanced technology and resources that could enhance its race day performance.
Verstappen, a four-time Formula 1 world champion, expressed excitement about the new venture. “Teaming up with Mercedes-AMG opens up new possibilities for our racing program,” he stated. “We are eager to take on the challenges of the GT World Challenge Europe with a strong partner by our side.”
The first season under this new partnership will see the team competing in various European circuits, showcasing the Mercedes-AMG GT3’s capabilities. The GTWCE has become one of the premier platforms for GT racing, attracting top teams and drivers from around the world.
As Verstappen Racing prepares for this exciting chapter, the motorsport community eagerly anticipates how this collaboration will unfold. With the combination of Verstappen’s racing pedigree and Mercedes-AMG’s renowned engineering excellence, fans can expect a thrilling and competitive season ahead in 2026.
