Following the Canadian Grand Prix, most Formula 1 drivers headed straight to New York City for the red-carpet premiere of Brad Pitt’s upcoming F1 film. However, reigning World Champion Max Verstappen opted out of the event, flying instead to Belgium for a private GT3 test at Spa-Francorchamps. This choice highlights Verstappen’s growing interest in GT3 racing beyond his F1 commitments.
Details Behind Verstappen’s GT3 Test and Absence from Premiere
On the evening of the movie premiere, many drivers enjoyed the star-studded launch in New York, which featured celebrities and influencers attending a large-scale screening, distinct from the smaller private viewing they had before the Monaco Grand Prix. Verstappen was notably missing from the event, opting to take his private jet directly from the race site to Spa.
His jet landed at Flamierge airport, close to the Spa-Francorchamps circuit, where he participated in another GT3 test session, this time piloting an Aston Martin. This session follows an earlier test in May, when Verstappen was seen driving a Ferrari GT3 car at the Nürburgring. He had registered under the alias “Franz Hermann,” likely to keep a low profile despite the distinctive Verstappen.com livery on the car.
Emerging Signs of Verstappen’s Endurance Racing Ambitions
Verstappen’s performance at Nürburgring reportedly involved breaking the lap record for his GT3 car class, and it remains to be seen if he can achieve a similar feat at Spa. Beyond these tests, he recently obtained a Platinum license that permits participation in significant endurance events such as the World Endurance Championship and the regional GT World Challenge series.
Although Verstappen often says these GT3 drives are for enjoyment, insiders suggest he aims to compete in major endurance races like the Nürburgring 24 Hours or Spa 24 Hours in the near future. Footage from racer Brent Verheyen even captured Verstappen overtaking him during this test session, underscoring the driver’s competitive pace outside of Formula 1.
What Verstappen’s GT3 Focus Means for His Racing Career
Max Verstappen’s decision to prioritize GT3 testing over attending a high-profile movie premiere signals a possible shift or expansion in his racing career. Pursuing endurance racing opportunities allows the Dutch driver to diversify his skills and prepare for potential future challenges away from Formula 1. His recent outings at the Nürburgring and Spa demonstrate serious commitment, supported by his Platinum license and record-breaking potential on GT3 machinery.
As Verstappen continues refining his craft in GT3 racing, fans and experts alike will watch closely to see if he formally enters endurance competition, adding another chapter to an already remarkable racing journey.