Max Verstappen to race against Valentino Rossi in GT World Challenge finale

Max Verstappen, the four-time Formula 1 world champion, is set to make his debut in the GT World Challenge Europe this month, where he will compete against MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi. This event will take place at Portimao from October 16 to 18, 2026, as Verstappen increases his involvement in GT racing following his participation in the Nurburgring 24 Hours.

Verstappen confirmed his participation in the GT World Challenge after two of his drivers, Jules Gounon and Dani Juncadella, opted to race in the World Endurance Championship due to scheduling conflicts. He expressed excitement about the upcoming race, stating that he enjoys the challenge and looks forward to performing well at Portimao, a track where he has previously achieved two podium finishes in Formula 1.