Verstappen Beats Fuji GT500 Benchmark Ahead of Nürburgring 24‑Hour Debut

*TL;DR: Max Verstappen posted a 1:42.290 lap in a Nissan Z NISMO GT500 at Fuji Speedway, shaving 1.785 seconds off the previous benchmark, and will race a Red Bull‑branded Mercedes‑AMG GT3 in his Nürburgring 24‑Hour debut.

Context Four‑time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen is expanding his racing portfolio beyond the F1 calendar. He has expressed a desire to compete whenever the schedule permits, citing the appeal of endurance events. His next appearance will be the Nürburgring 24 Hours, where he will drive a Mercedes‑AMG GT3 painted in Red Bull livery.

Key Facts - During a Red Bull Motorsports test at Fuji Speedway, Verstappen completed a single flying lap of 1:42.290 in a Nissan Z NISMO GT500, a 650‑horsepower Super GT car. The time beats the 1:44.075 benchmark set by Super GT regular Atsushi Miyake by 1.785 seconds. - The test took place in wet conditions; Verstappen required only two timed laps after an initial installation lap to achieve the record. - Verstappen confirmed his intent to race as often as possible outside Formula 1, noting that availability depends on the F1 calendar. - He will make his Nürburgring 24 Hours debut driving a Red Bull‑branded Mercedes‑AMG GT3, marking his first foray into the grueling 24‑hour endurance format. - The move has sparked speculation about Verstappen’s long‑term F1 future, with commentators linking his GT3 activities to potential shifts toward manufacturers such as Ferrari or Mercedes.

What It Means Verstappen’s Fuji performance demonstrates rapid adaptation to GT‑style machinery, suggesting he can be competitive in endurance racing despite limited seat time. The sub‑1:43 lap under wet conditions highlights his ability to extract performance from a car that differs markedly from a Formula 1 chassis in weight, aerodynamics, and power delivery. His upcoming Nürburgring stint will test stamina, night‑time driving, and teamwork—skills that complement his F1 expertise.

The broader implication is a growing trend of top‑level drivers seeking exposure in GT and endurance series, potentially reshaping driver contracts and manufacturer alliances. Verstappen’s participation also raises questions about Red Bull’s brand strategy, given its F1 engine partnership with Ford while fielding a Mercedes‑based GT3 car.

Looking Ahead All eyes will be on Verstappen’s performance at the Nürburgring 24 Hours. Consistent lap times and racecraft in the GT3 field could influence future cross‑disciplinary programs and inform discussions about his long‑term role in Formula 1.